The Met Office has issued an amber extreme heat warning for parts of England and Wales, with temperatures expected to reach a record-breaking 38C next week. The warning covers central and southern England, including the Midlands, and parts of Wales, and will be in place from Monday to Thursday.
The hot spell could lead to delays on roads and railways, and emergency services are preparing to assist vulnerable individuals. The Met Office has said there is “growing confidence” that this week may break the record for the hottest June temperature of 35.6C, set in 1976 in Southampton. There is a 25 per cent chance that temperatures could reach 40C.
Overnight temperatures will also be very high, with tropical nights predicted where the temperature does not drop below 20C. The UK Health Security Agency has warned that this will lead to a rise in deaths, particularly among those aged 65 and over or with health conditions, and will increase demand on health and social care services.
A second amber warning has been issued for Wednesday and Thursday, covering similar areas as well as parts of northwest England including Greater Manchester, Yorkshire, Cheshire, and North Wales. The Met Office predicts hot weather in southern and central parts of England and Wales, with strong sunshine at times but becoming increasingly cloudy by Thursday with showers.
Adverse health effects are likely in the wider population, including sunburn or heat exhaustion. The Met Office advises people to drink plenty of fluids, keep out of the sun, and avoid exercising between 11am and 3pm. Separate amber heat health alerts have been issued by the UK Health Security Agency, covering most of England from Monday morning until Friday night.
