Extreme Heat Warning Takes Effect Across Parts Of England As Temperatures Could Reach 38C

Extreme Heat Warning Takes Effect Across Parts of England as Temperatures Could Reach 38C An amber Extreme Heat warning is in effect across parts of England today, with temperatures forecast to reach as high as 38C 100.4F in some areas as a spell of intense summer heat peaks. The Met Office warning runs from 09:00 until 23:59 on Thursday and covers parts of southern and eastern England as well as areas of the Midlands. Forecasters say the highest temperatures are expected in parts of the Midlands and western England. Much of England is experiencing very hot conditions, with temperatures widely reaching the mid-30s Celsius. The Met Office says temperatures could reach 37C or even 38C in some locations. London is also experiencing very hot conditions, with temperatures forecast to reach around 35C in parts of the capital.

The warning reflects not just the temperature itself but the potential consequences for people’s health, transport, infrastructure and other heat-sensitive systems. The Met Office warns that vulnerable people are particularly likely to experience adverse health effects from the extreme heat. However, the wider population can also be affected, with risks including sunburn, dehydration, heat exhaustion, nausea and fatigue. Officials are advising people to take precautions and adjust their normal routines where necessary.

People are being encouraged to drink plenty of fluids, stay out of direct sunlight where possible and avoid strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day The heat could also affect transport and infrastructure.The Met Office says extreme temperatures can put pressure on heat-sensitive equipment and systems, potentially contributing to power cuts or interruptions to services. Changes to working practices and daily routines may also be necessary.

The warning highlights the broader effects of extreme heat beyond discomfort, particularly when temperatures remain elevated for an extended period. The current heat is expected to be relatively short-lived. Conditions are forecast to become cooler from Friday, with temperatures falling substantially in many parts of England over the coming days. In the East Midlands, for example, the Met Office forecasts a maximum of 36C today followed by around 28C on Friday.

The Met Office’s chief forecaster, Chris Bulmer, said the peak heat would be more short-lived than some recent heatwaves, but temperatures reaching the mid-30s still had the potential to cause significant impacts The amber warning means there is an increased likelihood of impacts from severe weather, potentially affecting daily life and creating risks to health and infrastructure.