The UK heatwave is expected to peak on Monday, with temperatures reaching up to 35°C in parts of the country. A rare amber warning for much of England and Wales has been issued from midnight on Sunday, indicating a potential danger to life or serious illness from the scorching conditions.
Extreme heat is also affecting Europe, with Seville reaching 42°C, and France, Germany, and Italy expecting similar highs. In England, the highest temperatures on Monday were recorded in Surrey, with 31.7°C in Wisley, 31.5°C in Charlwood, and 31.3°C at Heathrow, west London.
The UK Health Security Agency has issued Level 3 heat-health alerts across the south and east of England, the Midlands, and London. This requires health and social care workers to pay particular attention to high-risk groups such as the elderly and vulnerable. Downing Street said 'significant work' was being done across government to protect the most vulnerable during the heatwave.
All ambulance services in England have been put on the highest level of alert due to 'extreme pressures', partly due to the hot weather. The TUC has urged employers to keep workplaces cool, relax dress codes, and allow flexible working to make use of the coolest hours of the day. General secretary Frances O'Grady added: 'And bosses must make sure outdoor workers are protected with regular breaks, lots of fluids, plenty of sunscreen and the right protective clothing.'
The Royal Life Saving Society UK has warned against cooling off in lakes, quarries, and rivers, recommending lifeguarded sites and swimming with a friend. This follows the death of 16-year-old Alfie McCraw, who died swimming in a Wakefield canal. Forecasters predict the UK could face its hottest day ever next week, potentially topping the current record of 38.7°C set in July 2019.
Heatwaves are becoming more likely and more extreme due to climate change. The world has warmed by about 1.1°C since the industrial era began, and experts predict further rises unless steep emissions cuts are made. In England, there were 2,500 excess deaths in the summer of 2020 due to hot weather, and the Red Cross predicts heat-related deaths in the UK could treble in 30 years.
