A health warning has been issued by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) as the UK prepared for a severe heatwave.
The Met Office issued a Level 2 heat-health alert across the UK yesterday which mainly covered the southern regions. However, it has now been extended to the North West which is now predicted to experience extremely high temperatures.
A Level 3 alert has also been issued for the East of England, South East and London. Both alerts will remain in place from 9am on Monday, July 11 until 9am on Friday, July 15.
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Dr Agostinho Sousa, Head of Extreme Events and Health Protection at UKHSA, said: "Heat-health alerts have now been issued to the majority of the country, with temperatures set to remain consistently high throughout the duration of next week. Most of us can enjoy the hot weather when it arrives, but it is important to keep yourself hydrated and to find shade where possible when UV rays are strongest, between 11am and 3pm.
"If you have vulnerable family, friends and neighbours, make sure they are aware of how they can keep themselves protected from the warm weather."
According to the Met Office, high pressures continue to dominate the UK and will prolong the period of warm weather sweeping the country. Temperatures could reach as high as 33C on Tuesday with regions across the country experiencing temperatures way above the average.
Met Office Deputy Chief Meteorologist, David Oliver, said: “The warm weather over much of England and Wales could last for much of next week. In the short term, many can expect temperatures in the mid to high 20s Celsius over the weekend, and then in the low 30s Celsius during the start of next week. Much of next week will remain warm for the time of year as well as dry and sunny for many areas.”
Sam Hughes, National Water Safety Partner at the RNLI said: “It is great to hear that the sun is on its way but we want to remind everyone to stay safe at the coast. If you are planning on going to the beach we would encourage you to visit a lifeguarded beach and swim between the red and yellow flags.
“If you get into trouble in the water, Float to Live: lean back, use your arms and legs to stay afloat. Control your breathing, then call for help or swim to safety. In a coastal emergency, call 999 or 112 for the Coastguard.”
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