A 'national emergency' has been declared ahead of soaring temperatures next week.
Forecasters say 'exceptional, perhaps record-breaking' temperatures will hit the country, with some places forecast to reach 40C. The level four alert, which has been increased from a level three warning, is in place between midnight on Monday (July 18) and midnight on Wednesday (July 20).
Level four alerts are issued when "a heatwave is so severe and/or prolonged that its effects extend outside the health and social care system," the UKHSA says. "At this level, illness and death may occur among the fit and healthy, and not just in high-risk groups."
It's the first time such an alert has been issued since the Heatwave Plan for England was introduced in 2004.
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The alert reads: "Renewed hot or very hot conditions develop across the country during this coming weekend and into the new working week, peaking on Monday and Tuesday, with some exceptional temperatures possible in places. The hottest locations are likely to be in parts of central and eastern England."
It's vital for people to stay safe while the alert is in place. Dr Agostinho Sousa, Head of Extreme Events and Health Protection at UKHSA said: "Temperatures in England next week are likely to reach record levels, and it’s important we all know how to stay well in hot weather. Check up on vulnerable friends, family and neighbours to make sure they stay hydrated, keep cool and know how to keep their homes cool."
The Met Office has issued further guidance on the matter. They advise looking out for others, particularly "older people, young children and babies and those with underlying health conditions."
Professor Penny Endersby, Chief Executive at the Met Office, said: "This is the first time we have issued a Red National Severe Weather Warning for extreme heat and the first time 40C has been forecast in the UK. In this country we’re used to treating a hot spell as a chance to go and play in in the sun. This is not that sort of weather.
"We have seen when climate change has driven such unprecedent severe weather events around the world that it can be difficult for to make the best decisions because nothing in our life experiences has led us to know what to expect."
To keep cool, the UKHSA recommend keeping curtains closed in rooms that face the sun, as well as drinking plenty of fluids and avoiding excess alcohol. It adds: "Be on the lookout for signs of heat related illness. Cool your skin with water, slow down and drink water. Call NHS 111 or in an emergency dial 999."
It comes as the national weather service issued its first 'extreme heat' weather warning covering much of England next week. The red warning - the highest alert possible - will be in place from midnight on Monday to 11.59pm on Tuesday. The Met Office had previously issued an amber warning, but it was upgraded on Friday.
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