Six major UK weather warnings issued for 36C heatwave as temperatures higher than Barbados

Brits are set to swelter again today where the mercury could reach 36C, making ithotter than tourist hotspots like Barbados and here are six majorsafety warnings.

The most intense heat is forecast for southern and eastern parts of England on Tuesday after highs of more than 33C rounded off June. Many areas across the regions will again pass above 30C as a heatwave continues, while the rest of the UK will see more changeable conditions, the Met Office said.

Amber heat health alerts issued by the UKHSA for Yorkshire and the Humber, the East Midlands, the West Midlands, the East of England, London, the South East and the South West have been extended until 9am on Wednesday.

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A yellow heat health alert has also been extended to the same time for the North West, with significant impacts on health and social care services.

Monday saw the hottest start to Wimbledon on record, with 32.9C recorded at nearby Kew Gardens, while 33.1C was recorded at Heathrow. Charlwood in Surrey recorded the hottest temperature of the year so far at 33.2C on June 21.

But while many Brits will be enjoying the Caribbean weather important warnings have also been given for people to stay safe with the intense heat also bringing dangers.

Elderly/vulnerable

The UKHSA alerts are designed to warn health and social care workers about the impacts of hot weather on their services, including possible weather-related deaths in those aged 65 or with long-term conditions.

Scientists such as Dr Fredi Otto, from the Centre for Environmental Policy at Imperial and one of the scientists leading the World Weather Attribution work, label heatwaves as “silent killers”.

She said: “Every year thousands of people in Europe die due to extreme heat, particularly those that live in poorly insulated homes, on busy, polluted roads, and that have already health problems."

Particularly at risk are those who are older, or have pre-existing health conditions: more than 1,000 excess deaths among older people were recorded around the four-day peak of the July 2022 heatwave, with more than 3,000 heat-related deaths in England over that summer.

People are also being urged to check up on vulnerable people, especially those with dementia who may forget to keep hydrated. Angelo Makri, Senior Knowledge Officer for Wellbeing at Alzheimer’s Society, said: "People should absolutely enjoy the nice weather we’re having; however, it’s important to note that high temperatures can lead to severe health problems for people with dementia unless they take precautions to keep cool and well-hydrated.

Don't go out

Brits are being urged to avoid going outside at particular times todaywhen the sun poses the highest risk to life.

Many will be heading out to beach and green spaces up and down the country today as weather maps turn a glowing redand temperatures rocket up well above 30C.

In a reel posted on Instagram, paramedics explained how people are most at risk during certain times of the day, when the sun is at its height in the sky. They advise people to completely "avoid the sun between 11am and 3pm where possible". The service also advises people to take preventative medication for conditions like hay fever and asthma.

Five medications

A health warning has been issued regarding five specific types of medication that can potentially cause complications during hot weather.

On The Conversation website, Dipa Kamdar, Senior Lecturer in Pharmacy Practice at Kingston University, emphasised that people should keep taking the medications - but that they need to take measures to ensure they don't have an issue.

She said: "The body uses several mechanisms to regulate temperature: sweating, blood flow to the skin and fluid balance. But some commonly prescribed drugs interfere with these processes, making it harder to stay cool."

She listed the five medications for which people need to take particular care as: antidepressants, antipsychotics, heart medications, stimulants and insulin.

Dogs in cars

Pet ownersare being urged to remain vigilant during the heatwave after a French Bulldog died while trapped in traffic in a hot car.

The Frenchie - a breed which is at particular risk in hot temperatures - had to be rushed to Blue Cross animal hospital in Victoria, London after the owner got stuck in traffic but tragically the dog could not be saved.

Vets at Blue Crossare now warning pet owners of the dangers of travelling with their pet in the car during extremely hot weather. Aysha Kent, vet at Blue Cross, said: “We’d really urge anyone to reconsider travelling with their pets during the hot weather – especially long distances.

“This is such a terribly distressing and sad case, and our thoughts are with the owner who did what they could to save the pet by rushing them into our care but sadly it was too late.

“While we often think our cars are cool when we’re driving, this is often due to the active cooling of fans, and the actual vehicle temperature is much higher than we know. Putting the windows down isn’t enough to stop the heat rising.

Aysha added: “Avoid the usual walks and just take dogs for brief toilet breaks in the garden or outside nearby. Give pets frozen or cooled treats to stay cool and, if possible, provide dogs with a paddling pool to cool them down.#"

Early signs that your dog might be struggling with the heat include panting (especially if they have a curled tongue), slowing down or stopping on walks, and fast or heavy breathing. After this, you might see them drooling or lying down, followed by more serious symptoms such as vomiting, collapse or fits.

Wildfires

A warning has been issued as firefighters have responded to more than 500 wildfires across England and Wales this year so far and temperatures continue to rise.

London Fire Brigade assistant commissioner Thomas Goodall said: “London is already facing its second heatwave of the year and we know that people will be looking forward to getting outside to enjoy the wonderful weather.

“But the high temperatures and low rainfall in recent months means the current risk of wildfires is severe. During this latest heatwave, it is important everyone acts responsibly to prevent fires from occurring. As the weather has been so dry, it only takes a few sparks to lead to a fire spreading rapidly.”

National Fire Chiefs Council chairman Phil Garrigan said: “We are deeply concerned about the escalating threat of wildfires this summer, which have the potential to become more frequent, intense and dangerous – particularly in areas where communities border the countryside. We all need to play our part in protecting each other, our environment and our homes and businesses.

“We want everyone to enjoy the nice weather, we are just asking that they take extra care when out and about because it only takes one small error to lead to a significant wildfire. Fire and rescue services are already under significant pressure, having responded to hundreds of wildfires this year alone.

Workers

The TUC is warning that workers who are outside for lengthy periods in high temperaturesare at serious risk of sunstroke, heat stress and even skin cancer.

Working in hot weather can also lead to dehydration, tiredness, muscle cramps, fainting, and – in the most extreme cases – loss of consciousness.

TUC General Secretary Paul Nowak said: “Nobody should have to work in unsafe circumstances, but working outside in the intense heat and sunlight of a heatwave is a serious hazard.

“Employers should allow flexible working hours to avoid the hottest parts of the day, and provide regular breaks, plenty of water, sunscreen, and suitable clothing. If you’re concerned about your working conditions, joining a union is the best way to make sure that your safety is respected by your employer.”

But the UK does not need additional workplace laws which would allow Britons to be sent home during hot weather, the Business Secretary has said. Jonathan Reynolds said “behavioural changes” like drinking plenty of water and staying protected in the sun were more important.

He said: “It is a hot day today for a northerner like myself. I’m struggling a little bit with it. There are existing laws in place, the health and safety acts, around what a safe workplace should be. I don’t think we need more legislation in that area.”

He added: “Obviously, some behavioural changes, making sure people are hydrated, obviously are duly protected if they work, particularly outside. I think we have got to make sure that we’re doing that. We shouldn’t need additional laws.”