UK records warmest day of year so far as temperature hits 32.2C
Forecasters had said temperatures were likely to climb through the afternoon, amid an amber heat-health alert for all regions in England.
The alert, issued by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) for the first time since September 2023, is in force until 9am on Monday.
It warns 'significant impacts are likely' across health and social care services because of high temperatures, including a rise in deaths – particularly among those aged 65 and over or people with health conditions.
Dr Agostinho Sousa, head of extreme events and health protection at the UKHSA, said: 'Our findings show that heat can result in serious health outcomes across the population, especially for older adults or those with pre-existing health conditions.
'It is therefore important to check on friends, family and neighbours who are more vulnerable and to take sensible precautions while enjoying the sun.
People enjoying the warm weather in Edinburgh's Princes Street Gardens (Jane Barlow/PA)
'The forecasted high temperatures may also lead to an increasing demand for remote healthcare services and an impact on the ability of services delivered due to heat effects on the workforce.'
UV and pollen levels are also expected to climb alongside temperatures.
An official heatwave is recorded when areas reach a certain temperature for three consecutive days, with thresholds varying from 25C to 28C in different parts of the UK.
Met Office deputy chief meteorologist Dan Holley said: 'The highest temperatures from this hot spell are forecast for Saturday, with low 30s Celsius fairly widely across England, and up to 34C possible in eastern areas.
Thursday has become the hottest day of the year so far (Jonathan Brady/PA)
'Despite this, the more uncomfortable heat will be in northern and western areas initially, where despite somewhat lower temperatures the air will be more humid.'
He warned parts of the country are in for 'tropical nights' over the weekend.
'The nights will also be quite warm, with the possibility of temperatures not falling below 20C in some areas, making it hard to sleep. This is what we term a 'tropical night',' Mr Holley said.
Emma McClarkin, chief executive officer of the British Beer and Pub Association, said sales in some pubs increase almost 20% during hot weather.
She said the current heatwave is a 'huge boon for Britain's brewers and pubs'.
Meanwhile, a number of charities have issued warnings about the potential risks of hotter weather.
A person sunbathes near the fountains in Battersea Park, London (Jonathan Brady/PA)
St John Ambulance urged the public to familiarise themselves with the signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke and to learn how to respond.
It comes after a survey of 1,002 adults in England revealed more than half do not know the difference between 'life-threatening' heatstroke, which requires a 999 call, and heat exhaustion, which can be treated by cooling and hydrating a patient.
The British Heart Foundation is encouraging people with heart conditions to take precautions such as staying cool and keeping hydrated to minimise potential health risks during a heatwave, saying the heat can put extra strain on the heart.
Age UK urged people to check in on older relatives, friends, and neighbours to see if they need anything and to make sure they are not feeling overwhelmed by the excessive heat.
People in a row boat on the Serpentine in Hyde Park, London (Yui Mok/PA)
Dementia UK issued advice and tips on how to support a loved one with dementia in the heat, including keeping hydrated; staying cool with appropriate clothing; keeping the person out of the heat; cooling the person down by avoiding hot drinks, alcohol and caffeine; and keeping the home environment cool.
RAC breakdown spokeswoman person Alice Simpson warned drivers should 'take every precaution' in the heat.
'When temperatures soar, vehicle breakdowns usually do the same,' she said.
'One of the biggest risks is an increase in cars overheating, especially when sat in queues of traffic with no shade.'
Sunhats are essential for walkers at Yr Wyddfa in Snowdonia, Wales (Nick Potts/PA)
Ms Simpson urged drivers to check their coolant levels and any air conditioning systems that are not working properly, and to take plenty of water and snacks on the road.
People are urged to look after their pets in the heat as well.
British Veterinary Association president Dr Elizabeth Mullineaux said: 'Each summer, vets see pets suffering from heat-related problems and illnesses, such as heatstroke, breathing problems, burnt paw pads and sunburn, some of which can sadly be fatal.'
She said owners should ensure their animals have access to fresh drinking water, good ventilation and shade, advising dog lovers to avoid taking their pets for walks during the heat of the day and to never leave them inside a car, caravan or conservatory.
Tips from the RSPCA include using pet-safe sun cream; ensuring animals have constant access to shade and fresh drinking water at all times; keeping fish tanks out of direct sunlight; using cold treats from the fridge for added moisture or make an ice lolly for dogs from pet-friendly ingredients; freezing dogs' water bowls; and wrapping an ice pack or frozen water bottle in a tea towel, or use damp towels for pets to lie on.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Daily Mirror
2 hours ago
- Daily Mirror
Brits warned not to dry their clothes outdoors during 32C heatwave
Experts have warned people they could risk aggravating a specific health condition if they're tempted to hang their clothes outside to dry during the heatwave this week Brits have been warned to resist the urge to dry their washing outside during the heatwave - with 32C temperatures bringing health risks for those who decide to take the plunge. Temperatures hit a searing 31C in the southeast this afternoon, leaving hundreds of thousands of people at the mercy of severe heat for hours on end. With the sky-high mercury set to persist into the weekend and even increase, people will be looking for a silver lining to the oppressive heat, with quick and energy efficient clothes drying being one of few benefits. But select people have been warned against doing so, as they risk exacerbating an already debilitating condition. Home cleaning experts have warned that hayfever sufferers risk making their symptoms much worse if they hang their clothes outsie as pollen count surges. Nigel Bearman, home cleaning expert and founder of Daily Poppins, told the Manchester Evening News that this is a "recipe for itchy eyes and a stuffy nose. He said: "Hanging your clothes, bedding or towels outside on high pollen days is a recipe for itchy eyes and a stuffy nose. 'The wet laundry acts like a sponge, soaking up all the pollen. It settles into the fibres and clings on as the fabric dries, meaning it'll end up in your bed, wardrobe and on your skin. It's no wonder so many people have allergy flare-ups even in their own homes.' According to the Met Office, high temperatures play an important role in the release of pollen, with hotter days bringing on higher counts. Those most at risk aren't those in the hottest areas, however, as pollen is known to decrease if the temperatures reach the recent unbearable highs. The service explains that grass pollen is most active between 18C to 28C when the day is dry and winds are gentle, which is how recent conditions have played out. When the mercury rises beyond the 28C threshold, pollen levels of all kinds decrease, and the supply can even run out altogether if warm days chain together as they have this week. When clouds of pollen are being kicked into the air, clothes are known to absorb particles. Fibres tend to trap pollen quite easily, especially fabrics like cotton, linen or towels, with the clothes lines, balconies and garden racks people use to dry their clothes being well-exposed to airborne particles. Once the pollen has stuck to people's clothes, it can create hell for hay fever sufferers, who struggle to escape the source of their allergies for hours after exposure.
Powys County Times
4 hours ago
- Powys County Times
UK records warmest day of year so far as temperature hits 32.2C
The UK has broken its record for the warmest day of the year twice on the same day, with the temperature reaching as high as 32.2C. The new high was measured in Kew, west London, after the previous high of 30.8C in Wisley, Surrey, was recorded earlier on Thursday afternoon. Forecasters had said temperatures were likely to climb through the afternoon, amid an amber heat-health alert for all regions in England. The alert, issued by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) for the first time since September 2023, is in force until 9am on Monday. It warns 'significant impacts are likely' across health and social care services because of high temperatures, including a rise in deaths – particularly among those aged 65 and over or people with health conditions. Dr Agostinho Sousa, head of extreme events and health protection at the UKHSA, said: 'Our findings show that heat can result in serious health outcomes across the population, especially for older adults or those with pre-existing health conditions. 'It is therefore important to check on friends, family and neighbours who are more vulnerable and to take sensible precautions while enjoying the sun. 'The forecasted high temperatures may also lead to an increasing demand for remote healthcare services and an impact on the ability of services delivered due to heat effects on the workforce.' UV and pollen levels are also expected to climb alongside temperatures. An official heatwave is recorded when areas reach a certain temperature for three consecutive days, with thresholds varying from 25C to 28C in different parts of the UK. Met Office deputy chief meteorologist Dan Holley said: 'The highest temperatures from this hot spell are forecast for Saturday, with low 30s Celsius fairly widely across England, and up to 34C possible in eastern areas. 'Despite this, the more uncomfortable heat will be in northern and western areas initially, where despite somewhat lower temperatures the air will be more humid.' He warned parts of the country are in for 'tropical nights' over the weekend. 'The nights will also be quite warm, with the possibility of temperatures not falling below 20C in some areas, making it hard to sleep. This is what we term a 'tropical night',' Mr Holley said. Emma McClarkin, chief executive officer of the British Beer and Pub Association, said sales in some pubs increase almost 20% during hot weather. She said the current heatwave is a 'huge boon for Britain's brewers and pubs'. Meanwhile, a number of charities have issued warnings about the potential risks of hotter weather. St John Ambulance urged the public to familiarise themselves with the signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke and to learn how to respond. It comes after a survey of 1,002 adults in England revealed more than half do not know the difference between 'life-threatening' heatstroke, which requires a 999 call, and heat exhaustion, which can be treated by cooling and hydrating a patient. The British Heart Foundation is encouraging people with heart conditions to take precautions such as staying cool and keeping hydrated to minimise potential health risks during a heatwave, saying the heat can put extra strain on the heart. Age UK urged people to check in on older relatives, friends, and neighbours to see if they need anything and to make sure they are not feeling overwhelmed by the excessive heat. Dementia UK issued advice and tips on how to support a loved one with dementia in the heat, including keeping hydrated; staying cool with appropriate clothing; keeping the person out of the heat; cooling the person down by avoiding hot drinks, alcohol and caffeine; and keeping the home environment cool. RAC breakdown spokeswoman person Alice Simpson warned drivers should 'take every precaution' in the heat. 'When temperatures soar, vehicle breakdowns usually do the same,' she said. 'One of the biggest risks is an increase in cars overheating, especially when sat in queues of traffic with no shade.' Ms Simpson urged drivers to check their coolant levels and any air conditioning systems that are not working properly, and to take plenty of water and snacks on the road. People are urged to look after their pets in the heat as well. British Veterinary Association president Dr Elizabeth Mullineaux said: 'Each summer, vets see pets suffering from heat-related problems and illnesses, such as heatstroke, breathing problems, burnt paw pads and sunburn, some of which can sadly be fatal.' She said owners should ensure their animals have access to fresh drinking water, good ventilation and shade, advising dog lovers to avoid taking their pets for walks during the heat of the day and to never leave them inside a car, caravan or conservatory. Tips from the RSPCA include using pet-safe sun cream; ensuring animals have constant access to shade and fresh drinking water at all times; keeping fish tanks out of direct sunlight; using cold treats from the fridge for added moisture or make an ice lolly for dogs from pet-friendly ingredients; freezing dogs' water bowls; and wrapping an ice pack or frozen water bottle in a tea towel, or use damp towels for pets to lie on.
The Herald Scotland
5 hours ago
- The Herald Scotland
UK records warmest day of year so far as temperature hits 32.2C
Forecasters had said temperatures were likely to climb through the afternoon, amid an amber heat-health alert for all regions in England. The alert, issued by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) for the first time since September 2023, is in force until 9am on Monday. It warns 'significant impacts are likely' across health and social care services because of high temperatures, including a rise in deaths – particularly among those aged 65 and over or people with health conditions. Dr Agostinho Sousa, head of extreme events and health protection at the UKHSA, said: 'Our findings show that heat can result in serious health outcomes across the population, especially for older adults or those with pre-existing health conditions. 'It is therefore important to check on friends, family and neighbours who are more vulnerable and to take sensible precautions while enjoying the sun. People enjoying the warm weather in Edinburgh's Princes Street Gardens (Jane Barlow/PA) 'The forecasted high temperatures may also lead to an increasing demand for remote healthcare services and an impact on the ability of services delivered due to heat effects on the workforce.' UV and pollen levels are also expected to climb alongside temperatures. An official heatwave is recorded when areas reach a certain temperature for three consecutive days, with thresholds varying from 25C to 28C in different parts of the UK. Met Office deputy chief meteorologist Dan Holley said: 'The highest temperatures from this hot spell are forecast for Saturday, with low 30s Celsius fairly widely across England, and up to 34C possible in eastern areas. Thursday has become the hottest day of the year so far (Jonathan Brady/PA) 'Despite this, the more uncomfortable heat will be in northern and western areas initially, where despite somewhat lower temperatures the air will be more humid.' He warned parts of the country are in for 'tropical nights' over the weekend. 'The nights will also be quite warm, with the possibility of temperatures not falling below 20C in some areas, making it hard to sleep. This is what we term a 'tropical night',' Mr Holley said. Emma McClarkin, chief executive officer of the British Beer and Pub Association, said sales in some pubs increase almost 20% during hot weather. She said the current heatwave is a 'huge boon for Britain's brewers and pubs'. Meanwhile, a number of charities have issued warnings about the potential risks of hotter weather. A person sunbathes near the fountains in Battersea Park, London (Jonathan Brady/PA) St John Ambulance urged the public to familiarise themselves with the signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke and to learn how to respond. It comes after a survey of 1,002 adults in England revealed more than half do not know the difference between 'life-threatening' heatstroke, which requires a 999 call, and heat exhaustion, which can be treated by cooling and hydrating a patient. The British Heart Foundation is encouraging people with heart conditions to take precautions such as staying cool and keeping hydrated to minimise potential health risks during a heatwave, saying the heat can put extra strain on the heart. Age UK urged people to check in on older relatives, friends, and neighbours to see if they need anything and to make sure they are not feeling overwhelmed by the excessive heat. People in a row boat on the Serpentine in Hyde Park, London (Yui Mok/PA) Dementia UK issued advice and tips on how to support a loved one with dementia in the heat, including keeping hydrated; staying cool with appropriate clothing; keeping the person out of the heat; cooling the person down by avoiding hot drinks, alcohol and caffeine; and keeping the home environment cool. RAC breakdown spokeswoman person Alice Simpson warned drivers should 'take every precaution' in the heat. 'When temperatures soar, vehicle breakdowns usually do the same,' she said. 'One of the biggest risks is an increase in cars overheating, especially when sat in queues of traffic with no shade.' Sunhats are essential for walkers at Yr Wyddfa in Snowdonia, Wales (Nick Potts/PA) Ms Simpson urged drivers to check their coolant levels and any air conditioning systems that are not working properly, and to take plenty of water and snacks on the road. People are urged to look after their pets in the heat as well. British Veterinary Association president Dr Elizabeth Mullineaux said: 'Each summer, vets see pets suffering from heat-related problems and illnesses, such as heatstroke, breathing problems, burnt paw pads and sunburn, some of which can sadly be fatal.' She said owners should ensure their animals have access to fresh drinking water, good ventilation and shade, advising dog lovers to avoid taking their pets for walks during the heat of the day and to never leave them inside a car, caravan or conservatory. Tips from the RSPCA include using pet-safe sun cream; ensuring animals have constant access to shade and fresh drinking water at all times; keeping fish tanks out of direct sunlight; using cold treats from the fridge for added moisture or make an ice lolly for dogs from pet-friendly ingredients; freezing dogs' water bowls; and wrapping an ice pack or frozen water bottle in a tea towel, or use damp towels for pets to lie on.
