Amber weather warning for extreme heat

Local authorities have issued advice as temperatures soar - and are set to rise again at the weekend.

With at least a week of hot weather ahead and increasing temperatures predicted for this weekend and into next week, councils are encouraging residents to enjoy the sun safely but check on the vulnerable, including the elderly and those with heart and respiratory problems and also the very young.

It comes after the Met Office issued an updated Amber Warning for the North West of England today for exceptionally high temperatures for Sunday and Monday, July 17 and 18.

The Met Office warns temperatures will rise later this week and over the coming weekend, likely peaking on Sunday and Monday, but may last into Tuesday in places. 

Some exceptionally high temperatures are possible and cumulative effects of warm nights and hot days are expected to bring widespread impacts to people and infrastructure.

The warning includes Derbyshire and all of Greater Manchester.

As well as increased health concerns associated with the high temperatures, significantly more people are likely to visit coastal areas, lakes and rivers leading to increased risk of water safety incidents.

Delays on roads and road closures are possible, along with delays and cancellations to rail and air travel, with potential for significant welfare issues for those who experience even moderate delays, the warning states.

Temperatures are expected to build into the low 30s across the North West while being higher in the south east.

Heat alert

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued a level 3 heat alert.

Council staff will be making calls and extra visits to vulnerable people as required but local authorities are urging people to call them if they believe anyone needing help is being missed out.

Since last year, a new heat health related warning system has been introduced in partnership between the Met Office and the UKHSA, forewarning of periods of high temperatures, which may affect the health of the public. 

Local authorities are involved in year-round preparations for exceptional weather conditions, making sure local areas are as able to cope with high temperatures as they are with freezing temperatures or flooding.

Cllr David Fothergill, Chairman of the Local Government Association’s Community Wellbeing Board, said: “We know that with a period of warm weather on the cards that people will understandably want to be out enjoying the sun, but they should remember to take care, particularly of those who may be more vulnerable to effects of heat. 

“As the climate is warming, it is likely that periods of extreme heat may become more common in the UK and so councils will be working with others to ensure communities can be kept safe.

“No-one is immune to the power of the sun. Drinking plenty of water, keeping our homes cool, avoiding direct sunlight during the hottest hours of the day and using sunscreen are sensible precautions we all need to remember. 

“Looking around at how our older neighbours are coping as we walk our children to school or head to the beach for a day out takes no effort, but could be crucial in making sure they are also able to make the best of the summer.”