Major well being alert issued as Brits set to delight in scorching temperatures this weekend
A yellow heat-health alert has been issued by the UK Health Security Agency as the Met Office predicts scorching temperatures reaching 30C this weekend
A yellow heat-health warning has been sounded by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) as the Met Office predicts a sizzling 30C to hit the UK on Friday.
This alert, the first of its kind this year, is in place from 9pm on Thursday to 8am on Sunday. The yellow heat-health warning blankets the East of England, the East Midlands, London and the South East. Under the joint Weather-Health alerting system of the UKHSA and the Met Office, a yellow alert signifies potential strain on healthcare services by vulnerable individuals.
The increased heat could pose an elevated health risk for those aged over 65 or those battling with pre-existing health conditions, including respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. Dr Agostinho Sousa, head of extreme events and health protection at UKHSA has sounded the alarm.
“Our findings show that even moderate heat can result in serious health outcomes, especially for older adults, and it is therefore important that everyone takes sensible precautions while enjoying the sun,” the doctor warned.
“The forecasted high temperatures are expected to be short-lived but could primarily impact those over the age of 65 or those with pre-existing health conditions,
“If you have friends, family or neighbours who are more vulnerable, it is important to check in on them and ensure they are aware of the forecasts and are following the necessary advice,” the doctor added.
The Met Office has also flagged yellow thunderstorm warnings as the warmer weather rolls in. Warnings have been put in place for regions of south-west England, South Wales and Northern Ireland for Wednesday evening and Thursday. An additional alert has been raised for south-east England and East Anglia from Friday afternoon into early Saturday.
Met Office’s top weatherman Neil Armstrong stated: “A weather system will push northwards through tomorrow, bringing heavy rain and a risk of thunderstorms to parts of southwest England, most of Wales, and later into Northern Ireland.
“40mm of rain could fall in three hours or less, leading to the potential for disruption. Further thunderstorms will develop during the afternoon across England and Wales, moving quickly northwards with hail and lightning.
“Temperatures will remain high, with 26 or 27C possible again in the north Midlands and parts of north London.”
Deputy chief meteorologist Tony Wisson added: “By Friday afternoon and evening, heavy and thundery showers are likely to spread across south-eastern England and East Anglia, tracking north-eastwards overnight.
“With much of the rain falling in a short space of time, there is a risk of impacts such as surface water flooding. Frequent lightning, gusty winds and hail could pose additional hazards,” he added.
