FEEL THE HEAT
UK weather: Urgent health warning issued to Brits as 34C heatwave blisters UK
HEALTH chiefs have issued an urgent warning after forecasters predicted scorching 34C temperatures this week.
It'll be hotter in the UK than in Jamaica and Costa Rica on Friday, with days of sweltering sun to come amid predictions of record-breaking heat.
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But officials from the UK Health Security Agency and the Met Office have now sounded a red alert over concerns the heatwave could cause serious harm.
Forecasters said a level two heat-health alert has been issued for a large part of southern and central England, with a level one alert in place for northern England.
The highest rating on the scale, designed to help healthcare workers prepare for more patients during extreme weather, is a four.
A level two 'alert and readiness' warning is triggered as soon as there's a 60 per cent chance temperature thresholds will be reached on at least two days and a night.
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The roasting blast, courtesy of a plume of hot air from Spain, will likely be short-lived - but while it's here, medics will be bracing to take care of Brits who have fallen ill in the heat.
Currently, the Met Office is predicting highs of 34C on Friday - but some models show even higher temperatures.
The Weather Outlook suggests 36C could be reached, with 32C on Saturday.
The record for June is 35.6C, which was recorded in Southampton in 1976.
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Founder Brian Gaze said: "If correct, then Friday would be a new all-time June record for the UK.
"Absolutely staggering given how quickly temperatures would have risen."
Agostinho Sousa, head of extreme events and health protection at the UKHSA, said: "We want everyone to enjoy the hot weather safely when it arrives and be aware of good health advice for coping with warmer conditions.
"During periods of hot weather it is especially important to keep checking on those who are most vulnerable, such as older people and those with heart or lung conditions.
"Make sure to look out for signs of heat exhaustion and follow our simple health advice to beat the heat."
Met Office deputy chief meteorologist Dan Rudman said the temperature predictions are unusual for this time of year.
"Many areas will also see some warm nights, with minimum temperatures expected to be in the high teens or even low 20Cs for some overnight," he said.
SCORCHIO
"The heat is a result of a mix of home-grown warming in the day due to high pressure, as well as a southerly airflow introducing some of the warm air from the continent to UK shores."
The highest temperature reached in the UK so far this year was 27.5C (81.5F) at Heathrow on May 17.
An Environment Agency spokesperson said there is a low-risk of drought but warned further hot, dry weather could put pressure on some areas.
The British Red Cross, meanwhile, has encouraged people to protect themselves and to check in with vulnerable friends, family and neighbours during the soaring temperatures.
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It has issued advice on how to stay well in the sun.
Brits should drink plenty of water, avoid too much booze, layer up on sun cream and keep their homes as cool as possible.
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