Heat warning issued across extensive English regions due to amber heat health advisory in the UK weather forecast
UK Braces for Another Heatwave as Temperatures Soar
The UK is set to experience another heatwave, with temperatures expected to rise above 30°C (86°F) in some areas, according to the Met Office. The alert is due to be in place from 9am on Tuesday until 6pm on Wednesday.
On Tuesday, southern Britain can expect temperatures widely into the low 30s, perhaps exceeding 35°C (95°F) in places. This comes after the UK experienced its hottest day of the year so far on 1 July, with a temperature of 35.8°C (96.4°F) recorded in Faversham, Kent.
The Met Office's criteria for a heatwave are met when temperatures are above a certain level for three consecutive days. This threshold varies from 25°C (77°F) in northern and western regions (Scotland, Wales) to around 28°C (82°F) in parts of southern England and London.
The prolonged heat and drying vegetation have increased the risk of wildfires. Wildfires have been reported near Wimborne in Dorset and at Edinburgh's Arthur's Seat. The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) has issued a warning about the increased risk of wildfires due to the prolonged heat.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has advised people to take precautions during the heatwave. This includes staying hydrated, avoiding excessive sun exposure during peak hours, checking on vulnerable people, and following public health guidance. The UKHSA has also issued a heat-health alert, ranging in severity, to warn about health risks from prolonged high temperatures.
The health impacts of heatwaves include an increased risk of serious health outcomes, especially for vulnerable groups such as older adults (65+), young children, and people with pre-existing health conditions like respiratory or cardiovascular diseases. Heatwaves can strain public health services, as impacts may be felt across the whole population at higher alert levels.
The Met Office has warned that Britain's climate is changing rapidly, with records for heat and rainfall being regularly broken. The prolonged heat is not only a risk to people but also to the environment, as evidenced by the wildfires. Parts of the country are facing a fourth heatwave of the summer.
The Met Office's criteria for a heatwave are met when temperatures are above a certain level for three consecutive days. This threshold varies from 25°C (77°F) to 28°C (82°F) depending on the location. An amber heat health alert has been issued for the East Midlands, West Midlands, East of England, London, and the South East. A yellow heat health alert, also in place between 9am on Tuesday until 6pm on Wednesday, covers the North East, North West, Yorkshire, The Humber, and the South West.
Steve Cole, director of policy at RoSPA, stated that many wildfires are preventable through simple actions like properly disposing of cigarettes and avoiding open flames. The prolonged heat and increased risk of wildfires serve as a reminder for everyone to take precautions and follow safety guidelines.
In summary, the UK is experiencing another heatwave, with temperatures expected to rise above 30°C (86°F) in some areas. This prolonged heat and drying vegetation have increased the risk of wildfires. The UK Health Security Agency has issued heat-health alerts to warn about health risks from prolonged high temperatures and has advised people to take precautions during the heatwave.
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