UK drivers are being urged to check their vehicles before Sunday as a heatwave is expected to arrive across parts of the country. Forecasters are predicting temperatures could climb above 30C in many areas next week, with some parts of southern England expected to stay above that mark for several days. At the time of writing, the BBC Weather forecast suggests temperatures could reach as high as 34C in parts of the South East by the middle of next week.
While many people will be looking forward to the sunshine, the hot weather could also create problems inside parked vehicles. Cars can heat up quickly when left in direct sunlight, even when the windows are slightly open. Experts warn temperatures inside a parked vehicle can quickly rise above 38C, potentially damaging items left behind.
That is why meteorologists at AccuWeather are urging motorists to remove several common items before the heatwave arrives. Among the things drivers are being told not to leave in their vehicles are medications, sunscreen, glasses, groceries, lighters, matches, important documents, lithium-ion devices and clear plastic water bottles.
Medications and Sunscreen
The experts warned that high temperatures can make some medicines less effective or even unsafe to use. The warning includes everyday medications such as ibuprofen and paracetamol, as well as items like insulin, inhalers and EpiPens. Sunscreen can also suffer in extreme heat. According to the experts, prolonged exposure to high temperatures can break down some of the ingredients that help protect skin from the sun, making the product less effective.
Glasses and Groceries
Drivers are also being advised to take glasses out of their cars whenever possible. Prescription glasses and sunglasses left on dashboards or in direct sunlight can become warped or damaged by the heat. Food shopping is another concern during hot weather. Perishable groceries can spoil quickly inside a hot vehicle, while canned and bottled drinks may swell or even burst.
Lighters, Matches, and Plastic Bottles
Lighters and matches are also on the warning list. The experts at AccuWeather said butane lighters left in direct sunlight have previously been linked to vehicle fires during periods of extreme heat. Clear plastic water bottles may seem harmless, but experts say heat and sunlight can cause microplastics and heavy metals to leach into the water. Partially used bottles can also become a breeding ground for bacteria when left in hot conditions.
Important Documents and Lithium-ion Devices
Important documents such as passports, identification cards and receipts can also be affected. The experts said heat can fade ink, damage documents, and make them more difficult to read when needed. Meanwhile, phones, laptops, power banks and vapes containing lithium-ion batteries can overheat, swell or in rare cases catch fire.
Aerosol Cans
AccuWeather also included aerosol cans on its warning list because pressure can build up inside containers during hot weather. Items such as spray sunscreen, dry shampoo and insect repellent may also become dangerous if left in a baking-hot vehicle for long periods.
