The UK is experiencing its fifth heatwave of the summer, with temperatures set to reach 37°C. An amber extreme heat warning has been issued by the Met Office for Thursday, covering parts of the Midlands, southern and eastern England, from 9am to midnight. The warning indicates likely health impacts, travel disruption, and potential water safety incidents.
Health Alerts Issued
The UK Health Security Agency has also issued a heat health alert, as high temperatures are likely to increase demand on health and social care services. The agency explained: "Our bodies naturally cool down through sweating and by increasing blood flow to the skin. When the temperature outside the body is higher than the temperature of the skin, the only effective way to lose heat is through sweating. So, anything that reduces sweating can cause the body to overheat."
This can include being dehydrated, having a lack of breeze, wearing tight-fitting clothes, taking certain medications, and having conditions that affect the body's ability to sweat.
Government Advice to Keep Cool
High temperatures can affect anyone, so it is vital to stay as cool as possible. One way the government has suggested to keep your home cool is to turn off non-essential electronics. It said: "Turn off non-essential electronics. TV, laptops and chargers generate heat."
In another post, the UK Health Security Agency added: "When it’s hot outside, there are easy steps we can all take to reduce heat in our homes. Consider shading or covering windows, opening them on either side of the building when the air outside feels cooler (particularly at night) to improve air circulation, and using electric fans when temperatures are below 35°C, though avoid pointing them directly at your body to prevent dehydration."
"Reduce internal heat by switching off unnecessary lights and electrical equipment, as well as considering cooking during cooler parts of the day. Moving to cooler areas of your home for activities like sleeping can help."
It explained that while the advice may seem like "common sense", there are serious health risks during heatwaves, so it is vital to do all you can to stay cool.
