An amber health alert has been extended for several regions in the UK as temperatures are expected to reach 35C, potentially marking the hottest May day on record. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has warned that the increased temperatures may lead to a higher risk of fatalities, especially among individuals aged 65 and above or with existing health conditions. The heatwave is projected to have significant impacts on health and social care services.
Recently, Kew Gardens in southwest London registered a record-breaking temperature of 34.8C, marking the hottest spring temperature ever recorded in the UK. The UKHSA has prolonged the amber alerts for the South West, South East, London, East and West Midlands, and the East of England until 5pm on Thursday, May 28, while yellow alerts remain in effect for the North West and North East.
Vulnerable groups, such as older adults, are advised to take precautions as the heat can pose risks to their health due to difficulties in regulating body temperature. Age UK recommends staying indoors during the peak heat hours, from 11am to 3pm, and taking regular cold baths or showers to stay cool.
Forecasters predict that the hottest May temperature record could be broken again today, with temperatures reaching up to 35C across large parts of southern England and Wales, potentially even hitting 36C, according to the Met Office. Thunderstorm warnings have also been issued for various regions, including the South West, West Midlands, East Midlands, and East of England, with lightning, hail, and strong winds expected to provide some relief from the heat.
Yesterday, parts of the UK experienced a “tropical night,” setting a new record for the warmest minimum temperature in May for the second consecutive day. Temperatures stayed above 20C overnight in some areas, with a recorded temperature of 21.3C at Kenley Airfield in south London.
Met Office chief forecaster Andy Page stated that the unusually high late-spring temperatures are expected to persist throughout the week, with more “tropical nights” anticipated. He mentioned the likelihood of experiencing ‘tropical nights’ in parts of southern England and Wales, where temperatures do not drop below 20C.
For quick access to valuable news, consider selecting Daily Mirror as a ‘Preferred Source’ on Google News.