Heatwave continues

The Met Office has raised its Heat-Health Watch from level two to three for London and South East England, meaning there is now a 90% probability of a heatwave in those parts of the country. The Midlands are also highly likely to experience heatwave weather conditions.

From the start of the week parts of England have seen daytime temperatures soar to 31°C, and overnight temperatures as high as 18 °C. Some places can expect temperatures as high as 33°C by mid week.

Chief Forecaster at the Met Office, Eddy Carroll, said: “Temperatures are likely to peak today and tomorrow, reaching 32 °C before becoming less hot by the weekend as noticeably fresher conditions with the risk of showers pushes east across the country.”

After last year's "summer," a heatwave may seem like welcome news. However, heatwaves in the past have proven to be dangerous.

During the heat wave of August 2003, over 2,000 excess deaths occurred in England and Wales, with over 600 heat-related deaths in London alone.  A majority of deaths was seen in the over-75s.

Most at risk

Everyone can be affected by extreme heat, but older individuals, people with existing chronic diseases, babies and young children are particularly vulnerable to heat.

People with heart conditions are more at risk because extra strain is put on the heart as it pumps more blood to the skin to try and cool it down, and anyone with breathing problems may find they get worse due to the rise in pollution.

Dehydration and excess sweating can affect the body’s electrolyte balance so people using medicines intended to control electrolyte balance or cardiac function also need to take extra precautions to avoid dehydration. The same applies to anyone with an existing renal condition.

How to keep cool in a heatwave

Most severe heat related illness and even deaths occur at the beginning of a heatwave before people become used to dealing with the heat.  Excessive heat can cause dehydration, heat exhaustion and heat stroke. To keep cool and avoid dehydration:

• If possible, avoid going out in the hottest part of the day, between 11am and 3pm, especially if you have existing health problems
• Drink cold drinks regularly. Avoid drinks which can increase dehydration such as tea, coffee and alcohol
• When outside, stay in the shade, wear a hat and light loose-fitting clothing. Carry drinks with you. Don't forget sunscreen
• Take plenty of cool showers and baths - splashing yourself with cold water on the face and the back of the neck helps
• Shut and shade windows when it is hotter outside and open them again when it is cooler outside
• Eat as normal, but try to include more cold foods such as salads and fruit which contain water

Finally, check on friends, family and neighbours who are more vulnerable to the effect of heat and are less able to look after themselves.

This article was published on Wed 1 July 2009