Britons are being urged to take precautions as scorching temperatures return this weekend, with advice including rubbing wet sponges on your skin to stay cool. The Met Office has forecast highs of 32C in southern England on Sunday, with even higher temperatures possible on Monday.
Heatwave Conditions Expected
The Met Office update on Wednesday, June 17, indicated that temperatures this weekend will widely reach the high 20s Celsius. In the south of England, the mercury could rise as high as 32C on Sunday, with potential for even higher temperatures on Monday. Heatwave conditions, defined as at least three consecutive days with daily maximum temperatures meeting or exceeding the area's threshold, are likely in parts of southern and southeastern England from Saturday and more widely on Sunday.
"Alongside the warmth, there will also be spells of rain, particularly across northern and western areas, and a slight chance of thunderstorms across southeastern England," the Met Office added.
UKHSA Yellow Heat-Health Alert
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued a Yellow Heat-Health Alert covering the East Midlands, East of England, London, and the southeast of England from today until Monday. This alert means temperatures could impact the health and wellbeing of some people, though it is separate from Met Office weather warnings.
Tips for Staying Cool
The UKHSA emphasizes that anyone can become unwell if they get too hot, but some people are at higher risk. Their guidance includes:
- Apply cool water by spray or sponge to exposed skin
- Use cold packs wrapped in a cloth under the armpits or on the neck
- Avoid dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke
- Be aware of peak UV hours and wear appropriate clothing
These tips are part of broader advice to help people prepare for hot weather and take action to cool themselves and their homes.
Forecaster's Comments
Deputy Chief Forecaster Gregory Wolverson said: "This week's weather reflects a contrast we often see in summer, with more unsettled conditions passing to the northwest while heat builds in the south and east. As we move towards the weekend, conditions will become more widely settled and temperatures rise. Many parts of southern and eastern England are likely to see temperatures high enough to meet heatwave thresholds."
He noted that while temperatures may be high, there will be more cloud cover than in May, and a chance of thunderstorms developing later each day, bringing heavy showers and localised impacts.
Residents are advised to follow local guidance, as UKHSA primarily covers England, with devolved authorities responsible for other UK nations. The latest forecasts and weather warnings are available on the Met Office website.
