Cornwall recorded highs of 32°C on Tuesday as PHE extends heat-health alert
The amber heat-health alert, issued by Public Health England, will be in force until Friday (23rd July)
Temperatures have topped 30°C as the heatwave continues to grip Cornwall.
Kernow Weather Team says highs of 32°C were recorded in the St Austell area on Tuesday afternoon.
It came as Public Health England announced its amber heat-health alert was being extended until Friday.
That is alongside the first ever extreme heat warning from the Met Office, covering the whole of the south-west.
That was issued because of soaring temperatures during the day that are not dipping much at night.
What is an amber heat-health alert?
An amber heat-health alert, or Level 3, means 'Heatwave Action'.
The current alert states: "There is a 90 % probability of Heat-Health Alert criteria being met between 0600 on Tuesday and 0900 on Friday in parts of England.
"Sunny with very warm or hot weather for much of England during the next three days, with temperatures widely expected to approach or exceed heat health thresholds. Although northeastern areas a little less hot.
"Some cloud is also expected to affect northeastern coasts at times, perhaps extending to a few areas inland and further south on Wednesday, bringing some uncertainty with temperatures.
"The hottest weather across eastern areas is expected Tuesday and Wednesday, but many areas, especially in the west, are also expected to remain hot on Thursday.
"Very isolated thundery downpours are also possible, mainly Tuesday.
"Temperatures are currently expected to fall below heat health thresholds on Friday".
You can check the latest heat-health alerts for Cornwall and the UK here.
Why has an amber heat-health alert been issued?
Public Health England has issued a Level 3 heat-health alert which is supported by the amber extreme heat warning issued by the Met Office.
Dr Owen Landeg, Scientific and Technical Lead at PHE, said:"Everybody can be affected by high temperatures and most people are aware of good health advice for coping with hot weather.
"However, it's important to keep checking on those who are most vulnerable such as older people and those with heart or lung conditions.
"As we experience the first hot weather episode of the year, it’s important for everyone to remember to adapt their behaviours. This is particularly important during the pandemic with many people self-isolating.
"Most of us want to enjoy the sun. Remember to look out for signs of heat exhaustion and follow our simple health advice to beat the heat".
Dr Owen Landeg, Public Health England
How can I stay safe during the heatwave?
Public Health England says the top ways for staying safe during a heatwave are to:
1) Look out for those who may struggle to keep themselves cool and hydrated – older people, those with underlying conditions and those who live alone are particularly at risk
2) Stay cool indoors: many of us may need to stay safe at home this summer so know how to keep your home cool
3) Close curtains on rooms that face the sun to keep indoor spaces cooler and remember it may be cooler outdoors than indoors
4) Use cool spaces considerately if going outdoors, and wash your hands regularly
5) Drink plenty of fluids and avoid excess alcohol
6) Never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, especially infants, young children or animals
7) Try to keep out of the sun between 11am to 3pm, when the UV rays are strongest
8) Walk in the shade, apply sunscreen and wear a wide-brimmed hat, if you have to go out in the heat
9) Avoid physical exertion in the hottest parts of the day
10) Make sure you take water with you, if you are travelling
11) Take care and follow local safety advice if you are going into open water to cool down - during warm weather going for a swim can provide much welcomed relief
You can find more heat-health advice here of watch the hour-by-hour forecast below...