UK households are being urged to keep curtains and blinds closed during the hottest part of Thursday as temperatures are expected to soar across parts of the country. The Met Office says much of southern and central England will experience a heatwave this week, with temperatures potentially reaching around 36C on Thursday.
Heat health warnings
The advice comes as forecasters warn that prolonged hot weather can pose a serious health risk, particularly for older people, those living with underlying health conditions and anyone who may struggle to keep cool or hydrated.
Keeping a home cool is one of the simplest ways to reduce the impact of high temperatures. Curtains or blinds should be closed in rooms receiving direct sunlight, particularly between late morning and mid-afternoon when the sun is strongest.
Practical tips to stay cool
It may also feel counterintuitive, but keeping windows and doors closed during the hottest part of the day can prevent hot air from entering the property. Windows can instead be opened when temperatures outside have dropped, allowing cooler air to circulate.
People are also being advised to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day and avoid drinking too much alcohol, which can contribute to dehydration.
Anyone heading outdoors should try to avoid direct sunlight during the middle of the day. The strongest sunshine is generally around 11am to 3pm, making this the time when people should take extra care to stay in the shade where possible.
Protecting the vulnerable and pets
For those who need to go outside, wearing loose clothing, applying sunscreen and using a wide-brimmed hat can provide additional protection. Physical exercise should also be moved to cooler parts of the morning or evening rather than carried out during the hottest hours.
The latest Met Office outlook indicates that Thursday is expected to be particularly hot, with strong sunshine across large parts of the country. Conditions are expected to become fresher and cloudier in some areas from Friday.
The risks associated with extreme heat include dehydration, overheating, heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Hot conditions can also worsen existing heart and breathing problems.
People are being encouraged to check on relatives, neighbours and friends who may be more vulnerable to high temperatures, particularly older people and those who live alone.
Pets need protection from the heat too. Dogs should not be taken for walks during the hottest part of the day, with early morning or late evening preferable. Owners can also check the pavement before heading out by placing the back of their hand against the surface for several seconds. If it is too hot to comfortably hold there, it is too hot for a dog's paws.
Fresh drinking water and shade should be available to pets throughout the day, while good ventilation is particularly important during hot weather.
Pet owners should also watch for signs of heatstroke, including heavy panting, restlessness and a lack of coordination. Veterinary advice should be sought immediately if an animal appears to be suffering from heat-related illness.
People should never leave children, vulnerable adults or animals inside a parked vehicle, even for a short period. Temperatures inside a vehicle can rise rapidly and create a potentially life-threatening situation.
Those travelling during the hot spell are also advised to carry water in case journeys take longer than expected.
With hot weather becoming a more frequent feature of UK summers, knowing how to keep homes, people and pets cool is increasingly important. Simple measures such as blocking out direct sunlight, drinking regularly and avoiding the hottest part of the day can help reduce the risks when temperatures rise.
