The United Kingdom is bracing for another heatwave starting this weekend, with temperatures forecast to reach 30°C and health alerts in place for vulnerable individuals. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) initially issued a yellow heat health alert covering the East Midlands, east, south-east and south-west England, including London, from midday on July 4 until 5pm on July 8. However, the alert has since been extended to include the West Midlands and will now run until the following Saturday.
Health Risks and Precautions
The UKHSA warned that the heatwave could lead to 'increased use of healthcare services' and a 'greater risk to life' for vulnerable people. There is also 'increased potential for indoor environments to become very warm', while 'water-related incidents may increase, including risks from cold-water shock and drowning'. The agency urged caution, especially for those with pre-existing health conditions.
Temperature Forecast
The Met Office stated that while the likelihood of a return to last week's 'unprecedented' heat is 'currently low', a new period of warm weather is imminent. The previous hot spell broke the record for the hottest June day, set 50 years ago during the infamous 1976 summer, by more than 1°C. After a brief cooler spell, temperatures are set to rise again next week, with parts of South East England potentially seeing temperatures over 30°C.
In London, temperatures are expected to reach 31°C by Monday, steadily increasing over the weekend, with overnight lows between 15°C and 20°C. In north-east England and eastern Scotland, temperatures could rise to the mid to high 20s. Western areas such as Lancashire, the Lake District, western Scotland and Northern Ireland will be limited to the mid-20s due to an Atlantic breeze acting as a natural air conditioner.
Marine Heatwave Conditions
The Met Office reported that surface waters in north-west European seas are currently experiencing moderate to severe marine heatwave conditions. Waters have reached temperatures usually expected in August and are on average 2°C warmer than usual. In some offshore parts of the English and Welsh coasts, temperatures have even reached more than 4-5°C warmer locally.
Cold Water Shock Warning
Despite warmer marine temperatures, people are being warned about the risks of cold water shock. Holly Clements, Met Office head of warnings and guidance, said: 'With warmer weather approaching, and even with marine heatwave conditions, it's important to remember that the water around the UK is still cold. Entering it unexpectedly can lead to cold-water shock.'
The Met Office advised people to always choose an RNLI lifeguarded beach where possible, swim between the red and yellow flags, and call 999 for the coastguard in case of an emergency.
