The Met Office has issued an amber extreme heat warning for much of southern England and south-east Wales, the most extreme heat warning it has issued for four years. Temperatures are expected to climb to around 30C over the weekend and peak on Monday and Tuesday at 34C, with a chance of exceeding that in some spots. The warning, introduced in July 2021, was last issued in August 2022.
The UK Health Security Agency has also issued an amber health alert, warning of a likely rise in deaths among those aged 65 or over or with health conditions, as well as a potential increase in water-related incidents such as cold-water shock and drowning. The alert covers London, the south-east, south-west and east of England.
Ross MacLeod, water safety manager for the Royal National Lifeboat Institution, warned of the dangers of cold water shock. “It’s best to enter the water slowly to gradually acclimatise,” he said. “Anyone who finds themselves in danger should fight the panic instinct and ‘float to live’: try to relax and float on their back, with head tilted back, gently moving their hands and legs to help them stay afloat.” He urged people not to enter the water to rescue others but instead to call emergency services and throw something buoyant.
Greg Wolverson, a deputy chief forecaster at the Met Office, said while heatwave criteria will be met for some in the south and south-east over the weekend, the warmth will intensify at the start of next week, with potential impacts including tropical nights where the temperature does not drop below 20C. He added that thundery downpours are possible but likely to be isolated.
The RAC and AA have warned of an increase in breakdowns due to overheating engines and tyre blowouts, advising drivers to carry water and avoid travelling during the hottest part of the day. In Cambridge University botanic garden, head of horticulture Sally Petitt expressed concern over rare plants and mature trees like Scots pines, which have shown signs of decline in recent years due to intense heat.
