Report by Duncan Williams for Pulman's Weekly News
Health officials have issued a heat health alert as temperatures across parts of England are forecast to climb towards 30C later this week.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued yellow heat health alerts covering the East of England, East Midlands, London and the South East from 3.00pm on Wednesday until 8.00pm on Monday.
The alert comes amid forecasts of a significant rise in temperatures, with some areas expected to experience very warm and humid conditions as hot air moves north from continental Europe.
The UKHSA warned that the heat could pose an increased risk to vulnerable people, particularly older adults and those with existing health conditions. Officials said the warmer weather could lead to greater pressure on healthcare services and an increased risk of heat-related illness.
The agency also highlighted potential water-related dangers, warning that the warmer conditions could increase the risk of drowning and cold-water shock as more people head to beaches, rivers and lakes to cool off.
Temperatures are expected to rise steadily through the week, with some areas of southern England potentially reaching 30C by Friday.
The Met Office said high pressure is beginning to build across parts of the country and there is a “warm plume moving up through continental Europe”, with southeastern areas expected to become “very warm and humid” from Wednesday onwards.
While much of southern and eastern England is set to enjoy summer-like conditions, the weather picture will be markedly different elsewhere. Northern and western parts of the UK are expected to remain more unsettled, with spells of heavy rain possible on Thursday and Friday.
The combination of high temperatures and humidity is expected to create challenging conditions for some people, particularly those who are elderly, have underlying health conditions or are spending extended periods outdoors.
Health officials are encouraging people to take sensible precautions during the warm spell, including staying hydrated, avoiding prolonged exposure to the midday sun and checking on vulnerable relatives, friends and neighbours.
The latest forecasts suggest many areas could experience the warmest weather of the year so far, although authorities are urging people to remain aware of the health risks that can accompany periods of unusually hot weather.
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