The UK is experiencing its fifth heatwave of the summer, with temperatures expected to reach as high as 37°C. In response, the government has urged households to turn off non-essential electronic devices, including TVs, laptops, and chargers, which generate heat.
Met Office issues amber warning
The Met Office has issued an amber extreme heat warning for Thursday, covering areas of the Midlands, southern and eastern England. The warning is in effect from 9am until midnight. Forecasts indicate hot weather across the UK, with temperatures possibly reaching 32°C in Merseyside.
The warning suggests potential health impacts, travel disruption, and possible water safety incidents.
Health alert and advice
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has also issued a heat health alert, as temperatures are expected to increase pressure on health and social care services. The agency emphasized the importance of looking after wellbeing during hot weather.
In a statement, the UKHSA explained: "Our bodies naturally cool down through sweating and by increasing blood flow to the skin. When the temperature outside the body is higher than the temperature of the skin, the only effective way to lose heat is through sweating. So, anything that reduces sweating can cause the body to overheat."
Factors that can reduce sweating include dehydration, insufficient air circulation, wearing restrictive clothing, taking certain medications, and having medical conditions that affect the body's ability to sweat.
Practical steps to reduce heat
The government advised: "Turn off non-essential electronics. TV, laptops and chargers generate heat."
In another post, the UKHSA recommended: "Consider shading or covering windows, opening them on either side of the building when the air outside feels cooler (particularly at night) to improve air circulation, and using electric fans when temperatures are below 35°C, though avoid pointing them directly at your body to prevent dehydration."
They also suggested reducing internal heat by switching off unnecessary lights and electrical equipment, and considering cooking during cooler parts of the day. Moving to cooler areas of the home for activities like sleeping can also help.
The agency acknowledged that while the guidance might seem like "common sense," heatwaves pose genuine health dangers, making it essential to take every possible measure to stay cool.
