The UK could see temperatures of around 30C this week. While for many it is some welcome summer sunshine, for others it could be life-threatening
A heat health warning remains in place for large swathes of the UK as the country is set to bask in sunshine for much of the week. Parts of England will sizzle – and according to the forecasts, Scotland and Northern Ireland are set to have their warmest days of the year so far.
Scotland could reach as high as 27 degrees, but south-east England is expected to be even warmer, with temperatures of 30 degrees predicted on Wednesday. While that might make for joyous reading for many of us following a damp start to the summer, the reality is that it could be life-threatening for vulnerable or elderly people.
The main risks posed by hot weather are not drinking enough water, and overheating, which can make symptoms worse for people who already have problems with their heart or breathing. heat exhaustion and heatstroke. The UK Health Security Agency has issued a warning regarding the high temperatures. A yellow heat health alert remains in place until 5pm on Thursday, June 27.
Who is most at risk?
According to the NHS, older people – especially those over 75 and female – are especially at risk. Those who live on their own or in a care home could also be in danger, as are those who are on multiple medicines as some may make them more likely to be badly affected by hot weather.
Those who may find it hard to keep cool – babies and the very young, the bed-bound, those with drug or alcohol addictions or with Alzheimer’s disease – are also at risk. So are people who spend a lot of time outside or in hot places – those who live in a top-floor flat, the homeless or those whose jobs are outside.
To stay cool people are advised to keep out of the heat if they can. If you have to go outside, stay in the shade especially between 11am and 3pm, wear sunscreen, a hat and light clothes, and avoid exercise or activity that makes you hotter.
Cool yourself down. Have cold food and drinks, avoid alcohol, caffeine and hot drinks, and have a cool shower or put cool water on your skin or clothes.
Keep your living space cool. Close windows during the day and open them at night when the temperature outside has gone down.
Electric fans can help if the temperature is below 35 degrees. Check the temperature of rooms, especially where people at higher risk live and sleep.
