Plea to help vulnerable following first ever extreme heat warning in Cornwall
The Met Office says temperatures in the high 20s and low 30s look set to peak on Thursday
Last updated 20th Jul 2021
A plea has gone out to help the vulnerable in Cornwall after the Met Office issued its first ever extreme heat warning.
The amber alert covers the whole of the south-west until Thursday, when temperatures are expected to peak.
Some areas could see daytime highs of over 30C and there will not be much of a dip at night either.
Forecasters say that is unusual for the region at this time of year, which is the reason for the current extreme heat warning.
Read more: Amber level 'extreme heat' warning issued for Cornwall for first time ever
Met Office forecaster, Aidan McGivern, says for some people, extreme heat can cause health issues.
He said: "During this time, temperatures in this region will be well above average for the time of year.
"We're talking about high 20s, low 30s and as high as 33C in some spots.
"But it's not just about how high those daytime temperatures will go, it's also about how high those night-time temperatures will remain.
"In some places - 17, 18, 19 celcius so little relief at night for those vulnerable to prolonged heat and that heat continuing for several days".
Aidan McGivern added that the risks to public health for the most vulnerable include sunburn and heat exhausation, but that is not all.
"There are also other hazards that can occur around extreme heat.
"More people swimming in open water for example, increased traffic around coastal areas and an increased wildlife risk, as well as impacts on infrastructure such as traffic and power supplies; that's why we've issued the extreme heat warning".
Met Office Forecaster, Aidan McGivern
How can I stay safe during the heatwave?
Public Health England says the top ways for staying safe during a heatwave are to:
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
Stay cool indoors: many of us may need to stay safe at home this summer so know how to keep your home cool
Close curtains on rooms that face the sun to keep indoor spaces cooler and remember it may be cooler outdoors than indoors
Use cool spaces considerately if going outdoors, and wash your hands regularly
Drink plenty of fluids and avoid excess alcohol
Never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, especially infants, young children or animals
Try to keep out of the sun between 11am to 3pm, when the UV rays are strongest
Walk in the shade, apply sunscreen and wear a wide-brimmed hat, if you have to go out in the heat
Avoid physical exertion in the hottest parts of the day
Make sure you take water with you, if you are travelling
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
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
You can find more heat-health advice here of watch the full forecast below...