Households across England are being advised to keep their windows shut on Friday as the country braces for a return to scorching temperatures. After a disappointing start to June following a hot May, the Met Office forecasts a dramatic shift with temperatures potentially reaching 30C in parts of England on June 19.
Heat-Health Alert Issued
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and the Met Office have issued a yellow Heat-Health Alert for the East Midlands, East of England, London, and the southeast. The alert is active from 3pm on Wednesday until 8pm on Monday, June 22.
Expert Advice on Cooling Homes
While many people instinctively open windows when temperatures rise, heating specialists at BOXT warn this could make homes hotter. Angus Struthers, Managing Director at BOXT, explains: “A lot of people throw every window open around them the second it gets hot, but if the air outside is warmer than the air inside, you’re just letting more heat into the house.”
He recommends keeping windows shut during the hottest part of the day and opening them later in the evening when temperatures drop. Additionally, using blinds and curtains to block direct sunlight can significantly reduce heat buildup.
“It’s cheaper, and easier to stop heat building up in the first place instead of trying to cool your house down once it already feels like an oven,” Struthers adds.
Electric Fans and Long-Term Solutions
BOXT also advises that electric fans do not cool air but merely circulate it, so they do not lower room temperature. Leaving appliances on in unused rooms only increases energy bills. For long-term efficiency, the company suggests investing in energy-efficient windows, improving home insulation, and optimizing HVAC systems.
Met Office Deputy Chief Forecaster Tom Crabtree notes: “Friday is set to be the warmest day of the week, with temperatures likely ranging from 26 to 28°C, potentially approaching 30°C in parts of southeast England. Elsewhere, temperatures will remain closer to average but could be warm in Wales and the west Midlands.”
Residents are urged to monitor forecasts as the week progresses for updates on weekend weather.
