UK records warmest day of year so far as temperature hits 32.2C
The new high was measured in Kew, west London, after the previous high of 30.8C in Wisley, Surrey, was recorded earlier on Thursday afternoon.
Forecasters had said temperatures were likely to climb through the afternoon, amid an amber heat-health alert for all regions in England.
The alert, issued by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) for the first time since September 2023, is in force until 9am on Monday.
It warns 'significant impacts are likely' across health and social care services because of high temperatures, including a rise in deaths – particularly among those aged 65 and over or people with health conditions.
Dr Agostinho Sousa, head of extreme events and health protection at the UKHSA, said: 'Our findings show that heat can result in serious health outcomes across the population, especially for older adults or those with pre-existing health conditions.
'It is therefore important to check on friends, family and neighbours who are more vulnerable and to take sensible precautions while enjoying the sun.
People enjoying the warm weather in Edinburgh's Princes Street Gardens (Jane Barlow/PA)
'The forecasted high temperatures may also lead to an increasing demand for remote healthcare services and an impact on the ability of services delivered due to heat effects on the workforce.'
UV and pollen levels are also expected to climb alongside temperatures.
An official heatwave is recorded when areas reach a certain temperature for three consecutive days, with thresholds varying from 25C to 28C in different parts of the UK.
Met Office deputy chief meteorologist Dan Holley said: 'The highest temperatures from this hot spell are forecast for Saturday, with low 30s Celsius fairly widely across England, and up to 34C possible in eastern areas.
Thursday has become the hottest day of the year so far (Jonathan Brady/PA)
'Despite this, the more uncomfortable heat will be in northern and western areas initially, where despite somewhat lower temperatures the air will be more humid.'
He warned parts of the country are in for 'tropical nights' over the weekend.
'The nights will also be quite warm, with the possibility of temperatures not falling below 20C in some areas, making it hard to sleep. This is what we term a 'tropical night',' Mr Holley said.
A number of charities have issued warnings about the potential risks of hotter weather.
A person sunbathes near the fountains in Battersea Park, London (Jonathan Brady/PA)
St John Ambulance urged the public to familiarise themselves with the signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke and to learn how to respond.
It comes after a survey of 1,002 adults in England revealed more than half do not know the difference between 'life-threatening' heatstroke, which requires a 999 call, and heat exhaustion, which can be treated by cooling and hydrating a patient.
The British Heart Foundation is encouraging people with heart conditions to take precautions such as staying cool and keeping hydrated to minimise potential health risks during a heatwave, saying the heat can put extra strain on the heart.
Age UK urged people to check in on older relatives, friends, and neighbours to see if they need anything and to make sure they are not feeling overwhelmed by the excessive heat.
People in a row boat on the Serpentine in Hyde Park, London (Yui Mok/PA)
Dementia UK issued advice and tips on how to support a loved one with dementia in the heat, including keeping hydrated; staying cool with appropriate clothing; keeping the person out of the heat; cooling the person down by avoiding hot drinks, alcohol and caffeine; and keeping the home environment cool.
RAC breakdown spokeswoman person Alice Simpson warned drivers should 'take every precaution' in the heat.
'When temperatures soar, vehicle breakdowns usually do the same,' she said.
'One of the biggest risks is an increase in cars overheating, especially when sat in queues of traffic with no shade.'
Sunhats are essential for walkers at Yr Wyddfa in Snowdonia, Wales (Nick Potts/PA)
Ms Simpson urged drivers to check their coolant levels and any air conditioning systems that are not working properly, and to take plenty of water and snacks on the road.
People are urged to look after their pets in the heat as well.
British Veterinary Association president Dr Elizabeth Mullineaux said: 'Each summer, vets see pets suffering from heat-related problems and illnesses, such as heatstroke, breathing problems, burnt paw pads and sunburn, some of which can sadly be fatal.'
She said owners should ensure their animals have access to fresh drinking water, good ventilation and shade, advising dog lovers to avoid taking their pets for walks during the heat of the day and to never leave them inside a car, caravan or conservatory.
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