The May heatwave may have claimed its tenth swimming victim, as a young boxer has been reported missing after entering the water in Kent. The incident occurred at around 2:15 pm on Wednesday in Swanscombe, prompting a major search operation by emergency services at Galley Hill Road near Northfleet. Divers and officers remain at the scene.
Heatwave Death Toll Rises
This follows at least nine other deaths during the Bank Holiday heatwave, including seven teenagers, a grandfather in his 60s, and a woman in her 70s. Victims include 13-year-old Reco Puttock, who died after being found in Leadbeater Dam in Halifax; a 16-year-old girl at Kingsbury Water Park in Warwickshire; and 12-year-old Junior Slater in the River Ribble. Heroic grandfather Phil Crow, 68, suffered a cardiac arrest while trying to rescue his wife and granddaughter at Tregirls Beach in Cornwall.
Water Shortages in Kent
Thousands in Kent are experiencing water supply issues due to high demand during the heatwave. Matthew Dean of South West Water said around 18,000 customers are affected, with some facing intermittent supply. He urged residents to use water for essential purposes only, such as drinking, washing, and cooking. Bottled water collection stations have been set up.
The heatwave saw record temperatures for May, including a hottest-ever daytime record of 35.1C on Wednesday. The Royal Life Saving Society warned Britons to take extra care, as warmer weather often leads to an increase in accidental drownings. Experts advise swimming only where lifeguards are present, avoiding jumping from heights, and assessing swimming ability before entering water. Cold-water shock, caused by water below 15C, can lead to panic and drowning.
London Ambulance Service reported its busiest day since the pandemic, receiving 1,821 calls on Tuesday, a third more than the previous week. It is operating at REAP 4, indicating extreme pressure. NHS England saw 20,092 visits to its heatstroke advice page on Bank Holiday Monday, compared to 488 the previous Monday.
Weather Outlook
Temperatures are expected to ease slightly, with a high of 31C in London on Thursday, down from 35.1C. The Met Office forecasts warm but showery conditions from Friday into the weekend, with a band of rain spreading eastwards. Thunderstorms hit parts of the UK overnight Wednesday, with yellow weather warnings in place for Manchester, Birmingham, and the Midlands.
