Parents are being advised to limit their children's exposure to the sun ahead of a predicted 33C heatwave next week, the Independent reports. Temperatures are expected to rise over the weekend with parts of London and the southeast of England set to enjoy highs of 29C today (July 10).
Last Friday (July 8) saw parts of the country hotter than Santorini and Los Angeles and the mercury is set to keep rising into next week. Tuesday has been pinpointed as the day which could see temperatures go above 33C – potentially making it the warmest day of the year so far.
Heatwaves are becoming more frequent and more extreme because of climate change, with the Met Office issuing a level three heat health alert. David Oliver, the Met Office's deputy chief meteorologist, 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.”
With many families expected to enjoy days out to the beach, Sheffield Children’s NHS Foundation Trust has advised parents not to let children run around in the sun and to ensure they stay hydrated. The trust wrote on Twitter: “Don’t allow your children to stay in the sun for long periods – and never leave them in a car on a hot day. Resting in the shade and finding cool places is important.
“The first sign that a child is overheating is when they become grumpy or complain of a headache. If this happens, get them into a shaded place that is as cool as possible.
Remove any clothing you can, give them water to drink and get them to rest. Following these simple precautions means you and your children can enjoy the sun safely.”
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and the Met Office have issued a level three heat health alert for London, the east of England and the southeast from 9am on Monday until 9am Friday. A level two alert will also be in place for the southwest, east Midlands, west Midlands, the northwest, Yorkshire and the Humber regions.
This year’s record high currently stands at 32.7C, recorded at Heathrow on June 17.
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