Sun worshippers advised ‘watch out’ in hovering 21C warmth as ‘African plume’ might blind you
The UK roasted on Thursday, with 21C recorded at Northolt in west London, making it the warmest day of the year so far – now boffins are warning people to be careful into the weekend
Sun worshippers are being urged to be careful during this week’s soaring 21C heat as the ‘African plume’ could blind you. Warm air from northern Africa will see temperatures skyrocket, but it’ll bring higher UV levels with it.
Eye health experts are warning about the increased risk from UV exposure, as it can damage your vision. They want people to stay in the shade during “peak sunlight hours” and make sure they keep their sunglasses on. And they’re urging caution about wearing “cheap, low-quality” sunnies that don’t have proper protection.
Boffins say that while many people are aware nowadays about the damage sun can cause to their skin, far fewer consider the impact on their eyes.
But it can cause long-term risks such as cataracts and macular degeneration. Stephen Hannan, of Optical Express: “The sun emits UV-A and UV-B rays, both of which can be harmful to eye health.
“With a sudden spike in temperatures, and UV levels, people spending time outdoors this week should take extra precautions to protect their eyes.
“This includes seeking shade during peak sunlight hours plus ensuring sunglasses are worn and these sunglasses provide full UV protection.
“Many people don’t realise that cheap, low-quality sunglasses without proper UV filters can do more harm than good, as they cause the pupils to dilate, allowing in more damaging rays.”
The country roasted on Thursday, with 21C recorded at Northolt in west London, making it the warmest day of the year so far.
Forecasters say Friday will remain warm for many, although there could be some ran in southern areas before moving across the country “gradually”. The weekend will see “unsettled” weather, with showers for many.
Met Office deputy chief meteorologist Steven Keates said: “While Friday will be another warm day for many, we start to see some wet weather arriving, initially in Cornwall but gradually moving to parts of Wales and central and southern England later in the day.
“This heralds the move to something more unsettled for the UK’s weather on Saturday, with more rain or showers developing for much England, Wales and Northern Ireland through the day, and some heavier bursts likely in places.
“Unsettled weather, with occasional rain or showers for many, will continue on Sunday, with plenty of cloud around as well.”
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