UK households are being urged to place bowls of water in their gardens to help wildlife survive the ongoing heatwave. The Met Office confirmed that the heatwave threshold was met on Tuesday, July 28, and is expected to last until Thursday, July 30.
Why leave water bowls?
The RSPCA has previously advised that wildlife needs assistance during hot weather. In a Facebook post, the charity stated: "As temperatures rise, wildlife can struggle to find the water they need to survive. Without access to safe water sources, they can quickly become dehydrated. Leaving out fresh water is a simple but powerful way to support wildlife during hot weather. Place shallow bowls on the ground for hedgehogs and other mammals, and deeper containers in elevated spots for birds. A few moments of kindness could make all the difference."
Temperature forecast
Temperatures in England and Wales are expected to range between 25°C and 32°C over the next few days. Wednesday is likely to see the peak, with readings of 30°C to 35°C across the Midlands, southern and eastern England. Some parts of the country could see temperatures rise to the mid-30s.
Public response
Members of the public who have previously left water bowls out shared their experiences. One person wrote: "Bird baths are vital for this heat. Help the bird life and wildlife too. Also drink plenty of water as well." Another added: "I leave water out. 10 minutes later it's empty, after the starlings and pigeons have finished their baths!"
No warnings issued
The Met Office has not issued any warnings for this period of warmer weather, despite the heatwave threshold being reached. The Met Office defines a heatwave as "when a location records a period of at least three consecutive days with daily maximum temperatures meeting or exceeding the heatwave temperature threshold. The threshold varies by UK county."
