Advice to fell walkers during Cumbria's mini heatwave
It's as temperatures are peaking at 22 degrees celsius
Last updated 25th Jun 2024
Lake District Mountain Rescue Team are warning fell walkers to be prepared as temperatures across the country are set to peak at 27 degrees today.
There's a health warning in place until Thursday, with A&E services expecting to see a rise in demand from the warmer weather.
In the lake district there's concerns some people may succumb to the conditions, with heat stroke a big concer.
Richard Warren from the rescue team said: "Water is key. On a very hot day you need at least a litre of water.
"On the big mountains it can take a significant amount of time, and in the heat it can take a lot longer.
"People need to be prepared for 6, 7, 8 hours on the mountain.
"Heat exhaustion is where people will start feeling feint and in need of water and shade.
"Heat stroke is a life threatening situation where the body starts to get in the 40+ degree centigrade.
"You do sweat and that will help you cool but when it's still air too the risk of heat exhaustion and stroke is still severe."
Charities are also advising elderly people to stay hydrated, make sure to eat, stay out of direct sunlight, and wear light clothing.
As well, they're asking people to check in on their elderly neighbours, friends or family who may be at risk from the heat conditions.
Steve Thompson is the CEO of Age UK in Birmingham and Sandwell, he said: "If you think you're getting too hot watch out for some of the warning signs.
"Especially with dehydration, if you're feeling dizzy or confused, start to have cramps, urine becomes darker in colour or you feel weak.
"You don't have to feel thirsty to be dehydrated, it's a good idea to increase your fluid intake.
"Prolonged periods of warmer weather can be just as dangerous as cold weather.
"There's an increased chance of illnesses or infections in the warmer weather."