Latest news with #PaulGundersen
Daily Mirror
01-05-2025
- Climate
- Daily Mirror
'I'm a dog owner - spraying your dog with water can do more harm than good in the heat'
With peek temperatures hitting this week, the RSPCA and other animal charities are issuing fresh guidance for pet owners looking for advice on keeping their animals cool in the heat While summer coming early is great news for most people, our four-legged friends can suffer in the soaring temperatures. The UK is expecting to reach highs of 27C this week as an unprecedented heatwave strikes the UK. Dog owners are being urged to take extra precautions to keep their pets safe, with one viral video warning of spraying your dog with cold water to cool them down in the heat. Posting under the handle @buddy_the_brown_labrador, the owner of a chocolate Labrador shared their summer care tips in a viral TikTok video that has already racked up over 31,000 likes. Their key warning is to avoid using cold water to cool your beloved pet down as it could actually cause more harm than good. "It may seem like the right thing to do," the owner explained, "but spraying your dog with cold water can actually make them retain more heat. It causes the capillaries under their skin to close, which stops the cooling process." Instead, they recommend allowing dogs to cool off in a paddling pool or shallow bath, where their paws and mouth - key areas for regulating temperature - are submerged. Other essential tips include avoiding walks during peak heat hours and instead heading out before 7am or after 10pm, when temperatures are lower. The video also encourages owners to: Use air conditioning if available, ensuring the dog stays fully indoors. Relocate pets to the coolest part of the house if needed. Provide plenty of fresh drinking water, access to shaded areas, and daily brushing to help remove excess fur that can trap heat. The advice has been popular among TikTok users, many of whom admitted they had been unknowingly putting their pets at risk. One commenter wrote: "Omg I had no idea. We always put our dog in our unheated pool thinking we were helping. Thank you for this." Another added: "Very important information. Thank you for sharing." According to the RSPCA, the dogs most at risk from heatstroke are dogs with health conditions, flat-faced breeds like pugs or bulldogs, and dogs with thick coats like German Shepherds. The charity urges owners to pick shady spots for their daily walk, and pack a portable water dispenser ensuring they are hydrated every 15 to 20 minutes. It's also important to avoid pavement walking if it's too hot, instead opting for grass. The Met Office has explained that it's not unusual to see warm and sunny periods in April, but that temperatures in the mid-20s are more of the norm. What is out of character for this time of year is the 30C mark. If reached, it will break a record. Met Office chief meteorologist Paul Gundersen said: "It is not particularly unusual to see warm and sunny periods in April where temperatures reach the mid-20s. "This has occurred as recently as 2018 and 2019, for example. However, it is more unusual to see temperatures reach the high-20s, and if we see 30C this week, it will be the earliest point in the year in which we have achieved that threshold."
Daily Mail
30-04-2025
- Climate
- Daily Mail
Brits get set to bask in record-breaking heat! UK weather map reveals where the mercury could hit 30C - as Met Office issues 'very high' pollen warning
Britons will bask in more warm weather today amid forecasts that UK temperatures could hit 30C at the earliest point in the year on record this Thursday. Sunbathers headed to parks, beaches and riversides yesterday as parts of southern and central England saw balmy temperatures of up to 26C. And the Met Office said the warm weather will continue today, with highs of 27C in London - before temperatures could rise to 30C in some places on Thursday. But it's bad news for hay fever sufferers - with the Met Office issuing a 'very high' pollen warning for much of southern England and Wales. Forecasters said the period could officially be deemed a 'heatwave' if the mercury reaches 25C (77F) today, tomorrow and on Thursday in certain parts of the UK. Conditions are far warmer than normal for this time of year, with late April average temperatures around 12C (54F) for Scotland and 16C (61F) for southern England. In comparison, Greece will see 26C (77F) in Corfu, 22C (72F) in Athens and 17C (63F) in Crete; while Spain will get to 22C (72F) in Barcelona and 19C (66F) in Ibiza. It will even be warmer than the Canary Islands, with 25C (77F) in Lanzarote and Tenerife. The climbing temperatures mean that the UK could see the hottest day of the year so far recorded day after day this week, Met Office meteorologist Craig Snell has said. A paddleboarder enjoys the morning sunshine on the sea at Dover in Kent on Tuesday 'We're certainly on track to see the warmest spell of the year so far,' he added If 27C (81F) is reached today, this month would be the hottest April on record since 2018. Unseasonably mild nights are also ahead for parts of the UK, with minimum temperatures not expected to fall below 14C (57F) in the South West overnight into Wednesday. On Monday night, several areas of northern Scotland recorded their highest April minimum temperatures on record – including Kinloss in the Highlands at 12.6C (54.7F). Met Office chief meteorologist Paul Gundersen said on Tuesday: 'It is not particularly unusual to see warm and sunny periods in April where temperatures reach the mid-20s. 'This has occurred as recently as 2018 and 2019, for example. However, it is more unusual to see temperatures reach the high-20s, and if we see 30C (86F) this week, it will be the earliest point in the year in which we have achieved that threshold.' Nicola Maxey, press officer at the Met Office, said: 'As high pressure continues to dominate the UK weather we will see the temperatures building day on day through the week with Thursday seeing the peak of the heat with 29C (84F) or even a chance we could see 30C (86F). 'Friday temperatures will start to dip across much of the UK as the high pressure starts to pull away.' The highest recorded April temperature was in 1949, when Camden Square in London recorded 29.4C (84.9F). For May, the highest temperature recorded was 32.8C (91.0F) on May 22, 1922, also in Camden Square. According to the Met Office, the definition of a heatwave is three consecutive days of temperatures exceeding the 'heatwave threshold', which varies across the country. The threshold is 25C (77F) for most of the UK, with slightly higher numbers for the South and East, and rising to 28C (84F) in London. Warnings were also issued by the weather service over high levels of pollen and ultraviolet (UV) rays. Prolonged exposure to UV rays, emitted by the sun, can lead to sunburn and an increased risk of skin cancer. People can protect themselves by wearing at least factor 30 sunscreen, spending regular time in the shade and wearing suitable clothing, according to NHS guidance. Those who suffer from pollen allergies should try to keep the particles out of their eyes, face and hair by staying indoors if they can, or by wearing a mask and hat when outside, medical charity Allergy UK said. Will UK technically see a 'heatwave' this week? The Met Office definition of a heatwave is three consecutive days of temperatures exceeding the 'heatwave threshold', which varies across the country. The threshold is 25C (77F) for most of the UK, with slightly higher numbers for the South and East, and rising to 28C (84F) in London. There is a therefore possibility the UK could see heatwave conditions this week, if temperatures reached 25C (77F) today, tomorrow and on Thursday. They are also advised to shower and wash their hair regularly, and to remove the top layer of clothing when coming indoors. The London Fire Brigade (LFB) urged caution around open-water swimming after last month saw a 32 per cent increase in water-related incidents compared with the same period last year. Craig Carter, LFB assistant commissioner for prevention and protection, said: 'Even when the sun is shining, water temperatures can be dangerously cold. Cold water shock can affect anyone, no matter how fit or experienced they are. 'It can lead to water inhalation and, in the worst cases, drowning. Be particularly careful near the water's edge, it's easy to slip and fall unexpectedly. 'And think twice before jumping into open water.' In the first quarter of 2025, LFB crews responded to 160 water-related incidents, averaging more than 13 per week compared with fewer than 11 a week in 2024, the LFB said. There may also be an increased risk of wildfires as the warm temperatures follow a spell of dry weather in April and March, the Met Office warned. Gareth Morrison, Head of Water Safety for the RNLI said: 'With the warm weather forecast this week, we want to remind everyone to stay safe when visiting the coast. 'Whilst the air temperature will be high, water temperature remain dangerously cold. If possible, choose a lifeguarded beach and swim between the red and yellow flags. 'If you get into trouble in the water, Float to Live; tilt your head back with ears submerged and try to relax and control your breathing. 'Use your hands to help you stay afloat and then call for help or swim to safety if you can. It's OK if your legs sink, we all float differently. In any coastal emergency, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.' Pet owners were also urged to think about their animals in the hot weather. Dr Elizabeth Mullineaux, president of the British Veterinary Association, said: 'Like us, animals also struggle when temperatures soar. Each year, vets see pets suffering from heat-related problems and illnesses, such as heatstroke, breathing problems, burnt paw pads and sunburn. 'Remember, be sure your animals have access to fresh drinking water, good ventilation and shade from direct sunlight at all times in the summer.' Temperatures will start to fall from Friday with 25C (77F) being a likely maximum, although the Met Office said the South East may remain warmer than this for a time. Mike Childs, Friends Of The Earth head of policy, warned that heatwaves will become 'far more frequent and more intense as climate change takes hold'. 'The UK also needs to go further and faster to cut its emissions,' he said. 'A new climate action plan is due in October, and ministers must seize the enormous opportunities this will bring. 'As well as getting UK climate targets back on track, it will also cut bills, create new jobs, insulate our heat-leaking homes - and put the UK at the forefront of helping to fix our broken planet.'
Daily Mirror
29-04-2025
- Climate
- Daily Mirror
UK weather: Mercury to hit 30C earlier in 2025 than ever before in history says Met Office
With the Met Office predicting highs of 29C on Thursday, Brits could see the temperature reaching 30C at the earliest point in the year since the forecaster's temperature records began back in 1860 As Brits embrace warm and sunny spring weather, temperatures could hit 30C at the earliest point since Met Office records began, the forecaster has said. Currently, highs of 29C are forecast for Thursday at the peak of the warm spell, but warm temperatures on Wednesday could see the 76-year record for the highest April temperature broken. The last record was set in 1949 when temperatures in Camden Square, London, peaked at 19.4C on April 16. Much of southern and central England and Wales are forecast highs of 24C to 26C on Thursday, with the Met Office predicting that highs of 29C could be possible. If temperatures exceed this and reach 30C, which the forecaster has said could happen, then it would be the earliest point in the year that the mercury has reached 30C since Met Office temperature records began in 1860. If temperatures exceed 32C then the record for the highest May temperature will be broken on the first of the month - with the existing record standing at 32.8C on May 22, 1922, in Camden Square. Met Office chief meteorologist Paul Gundersen said: "It is not particularly unusual to see warm and sunny periods in April where temperatures reach the mid-20s. This has occurred as recently as 2018 and 2019, for example. "However, it is more unusual to see temperatures reach the high-20s, and if we see 30C this week, it will be the earliest point in the year in which we have achieved that threshold." Nicola Maxey, Met Office press officer, said: "As high temperature continues to dominate the UK weather we will see the temperatures building day on day through the week with Thursday seeing the peak of the heat with 29C or even a chance we could see 30C. Friday temperatures will start to dip across much of the UK as the high pressure starts to pull away." The latest weather maps show temperatures peaking at 26C in London and the south east of England on Thursday, with warm weather spread across much of England and Wales. Brits from Southampton up as far north as Newcastle will enjoy warm sunshine on Thursday as temperatures are forecast to range from the low to mid-20s and predictions of 29C from the Met Office. But one region is set to miss out on the best of the weather before things start to cool down again. Those in the south west of the country, mainly Cornwall but also parts of Devon, will see highs of just 16C on Thursday at 3pm, while areas in the Pennines and Scottish borders are set for just 14C. Chief Meterologist Jason Kelly said: "Thursday looks set to be the warmest day of the week, with temperatures climbing notably above the seasonal average. Overnight temperatures will also be very high in places. "It's possible national and station records for daytime and overnight temperatures may be broken, but it's unclear at this point whether heatwave criteria will be reached; if this happens, it is most likely in some of the lower category areas which require temperatures to reach 25C or above for three consecutive days. The far north will always see cooler conditions, with these more seasonal temperatures likely spreading erratically south later in the week.' The current Met Office forecast for Thursday to Saturday, marking the start of May, reads: "A very warm and sunny day on Thursday. An increased risk of some heavy showers or thunderstorms from Friday, otherwise dry and bright for most. Turning cooler by the weekend." In a tweet, the Met Office explained the unseasonably warm weather, saying: "A broad area of high pressure is currently positioned over the UK, leading to sinking air that warms as it descends. Combined with prolonged sunshine, this is expected to push temperatures up to 29C in southern areas by Thursday."
Daily Mail
29-04-2025
- Climate
- Daily Mail
Britain bakes in a heatwave: Temperatures could hit record 30C as maps reveal where will be hotter than parts of Greece and Spain
Britons basked in more warm weather today amid forecasts that UK temperatures could hit 30C at the earliest point in the year on record this Thursday. Sunbathers enjoyed the beautiful conditions in parks, beaches and riversides today, with parts of southern and central England expected to get up to 26C (79F). The Met Office said warm weather will continue tomorrow, with highs of 27C (81F) in London - before temperatures could rise to 30C (86F) in some places on Thursday. In comparison, Greece will see 26C (77F) in Corfu, 22C (72F) in Athens and 17C (63F) in Crete; while Spain will get to 22C (72F) in Barcelona and 19C (66F) in Ibiza. It will even be warmer than the Canary Islands, with 25C (77F) in Lanzarote and Tenerife. Forecasters said the period could officially be deemed a 'heatwave' if the mercury reaches 25C (77F) today, tomorrow and on Thursday in certain parts of the UK. Conditions are far warmer than normal for this time of year, with late April average temperatures around 12C (54F) for Scotland and 16C (61F) for southern England. Yesterday was also the UK's hottest day of the year so far with 24.5C (76.1F) recorded at St James's Park in London – although that record could be broken again today. If 27C (81F) is reached by tomorrow, it would be the hottest April weather since 2018. Unseasonably mild nights are also ahead for parts of the UK, with minimum temperatures not expected to fall below 14C (57F) in the South West tonight. Last night, several areas of northern Scotland recorded their highest April minimum temperatures on record – including Kinloss in the Highlands at 12.6C (54.7F). Met Office chief meteorologist Paul Gundersen said: 'It is not particularly unusual to see warm and sunny periods in April where temperatures reach the mid-20s. 'This has occurred as recently as 2018 and 2019, for example. However, it is more unusual to see temperatures reach the high-20s, and if we see 30C (86F) this week, it will be the earliest point in the year in which we have achieved that threshold.' Nicola Maxey, press officer at the Met Office, said: 'As high pressure continues to dominate the UK weather we will see the temperatures building day on day through the week with Thursday seeing the peak of the heat with 29C (84F) or even a chance we could see 30C (86F). 'Friday temperatures will start to dip across much of the UK as the high pressure starts to pull away.' The highest recorded April temperature was in 1949, when Camden Square in London recorded 29.4C (84.9F). For May, the highest temperature recorded was 32.8C (91.0F) on May 22, 1922, also in Camden Square. There is a possibility the UK could see heatwave conditions this week, if temperatures reached 25C (77F) today, tomorrow and on Thursday, the forecaster said. According to the Met Office, the definition of a heatwave is three consecutive days of temperatures exceeding the 'heatwave threshold', which varies across the country. The threshold is 25C (77F) for most of the UK, with slightly higher numbers for the South and East, and rising to 28C (84F) in London. Warnings were also issued by the weather service over high levels of pollen and ultraviolet (UV) rays. Prolonged exposure to UV rays, emitted by the sun, can lead to sunburn and an increased risk of skin cancer. People can protect themselves by wearing at least factor 30 sunscreen, spending regular time in the shade and wearing suitable clothing, according to NHS guidance. Those who suffer from pollen allergies should try to keep the particles out of their eyes, face and hair by staying indoors if they can, or by wearing a mask and hat when outside, medical charity Allergy UK said. Will UK technically see a 'heatwave' this week? The Met Office definition of a heatwave is three consecutive days of temperatures exceeding the 'heatwave threshold', which varies across the country. The threshold is 25C (77F) for most of the UK, with slightly higher numbers for the South and East, and rising to 28C (84F) in London. There is a therefore possibility the UK could see heatwave conditions this week, if temperatures reached 25C (77F) today, tomorrow and on Thursday. They are also advised to shower and wash their hair regularly, and to remove the top layer of clothing when coming indoors. The London Fire Brigade (LFB) urged caution around open-water swimming after last month saw a 32 per cent increase in water-related incidents compared with the same period last year. Craig Carter, LFB assistant commissioner for prevention and protection, said: 'Even when the sun is shining, water temperatures can be dangerously cold. Cold water shock can affect anyone, no matter how fit or experienced they are. 'It can lead to water inhalation and, in the worst cases, drowning. Be particularly careful near the water's edge, it's easy to slip and fall unexpectedly. 'And think twice before jumping into open water.' In the first quarter of 2025, LFB crews responded to 160 water-related incidents, averaging more than 13 per week compared with fewer than 11 a week in 2024, the LFB said. There may also be an increased risk of wildfires as the warm temperatures follow a spell of dry weather in April and March, the Met Office warned. Gareth Morrison, Head of Water Safety for the RNLI said: 'With the warm weather forecast this week, we want to remind everyone to stay safe when visiting the coast. 'Whilst the air temperature will be high, water temperature remain dangerously cold. If possible, choose a lifeguarded beach and swim between the red and yellow flags. A paddleboarder enjoys the morning sunshine on the sea at Dover in Kent today 'If you get into trouble in the water, Float to Live; tilt your head back with ears submerged and try to relax and control your breathing. 'Use your hands to help you stay afloat and then call for help or swim to safety if you can. It's OK if your legs sink, we all float differently. In any coastal emergency, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.' Pet owners were also urged to think about their animals in the hot weather. Dr Elizabeth Mullineaux, president of the British Veterinary Association, said: 'Like us, animals also struggle when temperatures soar. Each year, vets see pets suffering from heat-related problems and illnesses, such as heatstroke, breathing problems, burnt paw pads and sunburn. 'Remember, be sure your animals have access to fresh drinking water, good ventilation and shade from direct sunlight at all times in the summer.' Two people enjoy the morning sunshine on the beach at Dover in Kent today A paddleboarder enjoys the morning sunshine on the sea at Dover in Kent today A paddleboarder enjoys the morning sunshine on the sea at Dover in Kent today Temperatures will start to fall from Friday with 25C (77F) being a likely maximum, although the Met Office said the South East may remain warmer than this for a time. Mike Childs, Friends Of The Earth head of policy, warned that heatwaves will become 'far more frequent and more intense as climate change takes hold'. 'The UK also needs to go further and faster to cut its emissions,' he said. 'A new climate action plan is due in October, and ministers must seize the enormous opportunities this will bring. 'As well as getting UK climate targets back on track, it will also cut bills, create new jobs, insulate our heat-leaking homes - and put the UK at the forefront of helping to fix our broken planet.'
The Independent
03-04-2025
- Climate
- The Independent
Weather map: Where in the UK will be hotter than the Algarve as temperatures soar to 22C
Parts of the UK are set to be hotter than the Algarve on Friday with temperatures expected to reach 22C. The record-breaking sunny spells from March are set to continue into April, peaking ahead of the weekend across London and Cambridge. Temperatures are expected to fluctuate in the twenties across the south of England and remain balmy across the rest of the country, with even Kendal seeing 18C heat. Friday could be the warmest day of the year so far in the UK, exceeding the 21.3C peak experienced earlier this year. In Scotland, temperatures will peak at 18C in Stranraer and Cumnock, while other places may feel cooler further north. The south of Scotland will see temperatures on par with Portugal 's top holiday destination, the Algarve, which will see highs of 18C with some spells of drizzle in the region. Skies are set to remain clear across the UK with mild cloud across the north of Wales. While the temperatures may dip into the high teens over the weekend, the sunshine is here to stay into next week. These dry, breezy and bright conditions come as the Daily Hazard Assessment, used to brief first responders, rated conditions for wildfires as severe across the United Kingdom earlier this week. Fire brigades across most of England, including London, were on alert, which was extended into Northern Ireland and southern Scotland on Wednesday. Kathryn Chalk, a meteorologist at the Met Office, said: 'With strong winds and ongoing dry/warm weather, this brings a continued likelihood for wildfire conditions through the period.' As well as an increased risk of wildfires, with some already occurring in Dorset and Glasgow, people across the country have been warned to protect themselves from UV rays while outside this week. Met Office chief meteorologist Paul Gundersen said: 'The UK will have a sunny start to April this week. Temperatures will slowly build, with highs of 21-22C possible by Thursday. "Other than a small chance of some light rain grazing the far southwest of England, it will be a dry week too. At this time of the year, we do start to see higher UV levels, so if you are outside enjoying the sunshine do think about protecting yourself from the sun as even in April it is strong enough to burn your skin.' The forecaster said that England enjoyed its sunniest March since records began in 1910, with many individual counties also topping sunshine duration records. It was also the UK's third sunniest March on record and Wales's second. It was equally a very dry month as only Scotland recorded more than half of its meteorological average rainfall, while Shetland was the only county that saw above average with 129 per cent. Tonight: Cloudy, mild and breezy across the southwest with further rain, moving into parts of Northern Ireland during the early hours. Dry elsewhere with patchy low cloud in the northeast. Friday: Showers in the west gradually dying out on Friday, but dry elsewhere with warm sunshine. Breezy in the south and west, and feeling cooler along North Sea coasts. Saturday to Monday: Generally fine and settled over the weekend and into next week with warm sunshine. Some low cloud possible north and east at times. Still breezy south and west. Cooling down.
