Hot weather predicted for Wimbledon's opening, with heatwave approaching
Heading to Wimbledon this year promises a scorching start, as the city prepares for its hottest opening day ever! Temperatures are expected to soar up to the mid-30s on June 30, after a sweltering weekend. This heatwave could even surpass Wimbledon's record temperature of 35.7°C set in 2015, with on-court temperatures predicted to be significantly higher.
Faced with these sweltering conditions, Wimbledon has instituted a heat rule allowing a 10-minute break in play when the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) hits 30.1°C or higher. The WBGT takes various factors into account, including ambient temp, humidity, wind, and sun angle. However, environmental physiology researcher Chris Tyler warns that while this rule helps, it fails to account for players' physical exertion on the court.
According to Tyler, "Most of the heat risk for players relates to their actual body temperature increasing, 80% of their body temperature is related to what they're doing. Many players will change the way they play if it's that warm, shorter points, and perhaps less interesting for the fans." He suggests that elite players, who are likely acclimated, will manage the heat, but lesser-experienced players may face challenges adapting their play.
Tyler also cautions against the common practice of applying iced towels to the back of the neck during changeovers as an ineffective cooling method. He recommends targeting the feet, forearms, and groin for better heat exchange. However, he acknowledges that optimal cooling relies on a combination of pre-cooling, such as wearing cooling vests or using ice packs, maintaining proper hydration, and seeking shade and fans during breaks, in addition to cooling towels.
Meanwhile, Wimbledon organizers have plans in place to protect the general public and staff, including adjusting staff shifts, setting up more water refill stations, and announcing real-time weather alerts on big screens and the website. Shade-mapping will also help attendees seek relief from the sun. After the extreme heat on the 30th and 1st of July, temperatures are expected to drop to the low to mid-20s with some showers later in the week.
Despite the scorching temperatures on Wimbledon's opening day, promising a hotter start than ever before, environmental physiology researcher Chris Tyler highlights the concern that the heat rule, designed to minimize play interruptions due to heat, may not adequately address the physical exertion and increased body temperature of tennis players. He warns that many players may alter their playstyle due to the heat, potentially making it less engaging for fans.
