Brits certainly have had their fair share of contrasting weather this season with last weekend’s blustery winds and heavy rain replaced with a heat wave this week. Temperatures soared into the early thirties this week with Gravesend recording 33.9°C yesterday (more than 18°C above the last decades monthly average).
The latest data out of the MORECAST severe weather centre has temperatures continuing into the mid to high 20s across southern and south-east England until Friday evening. Alongside the heat, thundery rain is also expected across southern and south-east England tomorrow with the chance of isolated storms continuing into the weekend.
The heat wave is expected to put a considerable amount of strain on health care providers and first responders, who typically see a sharp increase in calls during times of extreme temperature.
Tips to beat the heat:
- Drink plenty of water but not to excess. In hot environments, the human body can lose up to one litre of water per hour.
- Limit the intake of caffeinated, sugary and alcoholic drinks.
- Wear loose-fitting, lightweight clothing to keep yourself cool.
- Pay attention to the signs of heat stress in your body. If you are feeling lightheaded, nauseated, fatigued or have a headache you may be experiencing the typical symptoms of heat exhaustion.
- Keep your house cool by closing curtains and opening windows if the air is cooler outside.
- Apply plenty of sunscreen and wear a hat to reduce the risk of sunburn.