A stark warning.
The UK Met Office has issued an amber weather warning for extreme heat across England and Wales, with a “potential risk to life and property” highlighted.
The rare extreme heat warning is in place for this coming Sunday (17 July) and into the following days, when temperatures could reach the low 30s in some areas.
It covers almost the entirety of England and much of Wales. The hottest temperatures will be felt in the south and Midlands, with London currently predicted to experience temperatures in the region of 34C.
⚠️⚠️Amber Weather Warning issued⚠️⚠️
This rare Extreme Heat warning covers much of England and parts of Wales 📈
Exceptionally high temperatures are possible from Sunday, lasting into early next week #heatwave 🌡️
Latest info 👉 https://t.co/QwDLMfRBfs
Stay #WeatherAware⚠️ pic.twitter.com/Ahe0nxK4aU
— Met Office (@metoffice) July 11, 2022
Explaining what an amber warning means, the forecaster says: “There is an increased likelihood of impacts from severe weather, which could potentially disrupt your plans.
“This means there is the possibility of travel delays, road and rail closures, power cuts and the potential risk to life and property. You should think about changing your plans and taking action to protect yourself and your property.
“You may want to consider the impact of the weather on your family and your community and whether there is anything you need to do ahead of the severe weather to minimise the impact.”
You can find out more information about Met Office weather warnings here.
The Met Office has also tweeted advice and help for dealing with extreme heat.
⚠️ Here are some of the possible impacts from the extreme heat and very high temperatures that we expect in many areas from Sunday 🌡️ #heatwaveuk pic.twitter.com/xZCfohcqLk
— Met Office (@metoffice) July 11, 2022
Central, eastern and southern parts of the England are already experiencing 30C heat throughout Monday, but the start of next week could surpass these temperatures.
People are urged to check on those who may be more vulnerable to the heat, such as the elderly or those with heart and respiratory problems.
Water companies are also warning people not to waste water or take cold showers to cool off, Sky News reports. There are fears from companies that they may not be able to keep up with demand during the heat.
A spokesman from Southern Water said: “We do not anticipate the need for temporary use bans across the whole of our region in the coming months.
“However, we may require extra measures in certain areas where water is scarcer and the pressure on supply is greatest, such as Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. We are working closely with local communities and partner agencies in these areas, to keep disruption to a minimum.”
On Monday, Network Rail said a “stray spark” had caused a fire over train tracks after it ignited “very dry” timber beams.
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