Temperatures could reach 35C in the South East on Monday, higher than forecasts for the Greek islands of Mykonos, Rhodes and Santorini, according to the Met Office. Much of central and southern England is set to see highs in the upper 20s to low 30s before temperatures ease slightly later in the week.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued amber heat-health alerts for the East Midlands, East of England, South East and London from Monday until Wednesday morning. Yellow heat-health alerts will be in place for the North West, Yorkshire and The Humber, West Midlands and South West over the same period.
The amber alert warns the heat could place extra pressure on the NHS, with more vulnerable people likely to require medical treatment.
Forecast details
Met Office forecaster Marco Petagna said: “We’re going with a headline tomorrow of 34C, but with a potential for local 35C in the South East, the Midlands into the low 30s as well.” He said central and southern England would widely see high 20s to low 30s, with the South East approaching or touching the mid-30s.
Mr Petagna said tomorrow would be the peak of the heat, with temperatures falling to 28 to 30C on Tuesday. The South East and East Anglia would see the highest temperatures that day, still well above average. By Wednesday, the South East could see high 20s, around 26 or 27C, with a gradual cooling process through the week.
Northern and western areas would remain cooler, with highs in the high teens to low 20s, he said. Low pressure moving in from the west could bring rain to northern and western parts of the UK, with a chance of showers reaching the South East on Tuesday and Wednesday. Parts of Scotland and Northern Ireland could see heavy rain, with weather warnings possible in parts of Scotland. Wales is forecast to reach the high 20s on Monday before cooling to the mid-20s over the following days.
Health advice
Polly Ashmore, of the UKHSA, said: “Periods of hot weather can result in serious health outcomes, especially for older adults, and it is therefore important that everyone takes sensible precautions while enjoying the sun. We are urging health and social care services in affected regions to ensure they are prepared, and reminding people to look out for elderly relatives, neighbours and those with underlying health conditions, making sure they are aware of the forecast and following the necessary advice. Simple steps such as staying hydrated, avoiding the sun during the hottest part of the day, and keeping your home cool are some of the key ways to help keep yourself and others safe during periods of hot weather.”
Angelo Makri, of the Alzheimer’s Society, said: “People should absolutely enjoy the warmer weather, but it’s important to remember that high temperatures can pose serious risks for people living with dementia if they are not supported to stay cool and hydrated. People with dementia may not always recognise when they need a drink or wear suitable clothing, which can increase the risk of dehydration and heat-related illness. With temperatures set to reach extreme highs this week, we’re urging families, friends and carers to make sure loved ones are drinking enough, wearing light clothing and staying indoors as much as possible.”
