Red extreme heat warning kicks in for parts of Surrey
The first ever warning of it's kind from the Met Office suggests there could be a risk to life and temperatures could hit 40C
Last updated 18th Jul 2022
A rare red weather warning has come into force for large parts England including a small area of Surrey near the London border like Chertsey and Esher.
It's the first ever warning of it's kind from the Met Office and suggests there could be a risk to life and temperatures could hit 40C in places.
The Met Office says extreme heat on Monday and Tuesday could have a widespread impact on people and infrastructure.
It added 'substantial changes to working practices and daily routines' will be required - with an influx of people on the coast possibly leading to water safety concerns.
Deputy Prime Minister Dominic Raab has suggested working from home could be a good idea though, although insisted that is ultimately bosses' decision.
"This is potentially a very serious situation."
Grahame Madge, Met Office spokesman, said: "We've just issued a red warning for extreme heat for Monday and Tuesday which is the first such warning ever issued. This is potentially a very serious situation."
In addition to the 'Red warning', an amber warning remains in place across all of Surrey and Hampshire.
Travel Disruption
South Western Railway is cancelling some services and introducing speed restrictions on some lines.
It's to reduce the wear on rails to prevent them from buckling.
People are being urged only to travel if absolutely necessary.
People heading out on the roads are being urged to take care and ensure they have plenty of water.
National Highways are asking drivers to check their vehicles before heading off, as well as taking plenty of water for their journeys.
Checking tyres, engine oil, water, lights and fuel levels are all on the list of basic considerations.
Get Water Wise
The Met Office is also warning of a potential rise in the number of water-related incidents, with people expected to flock to beaches, lakes and rivers to cool off.
It's something which has led to a number of drownings in recent weeks, including at least two this weekend alone.
People are being urged to Get Water Wise and educate themselves on how to stay safe in open water.
What should do to keep safe and cool during this time?
We're all being urged to keep hydrated, look out for vulnerable people, keep curtains closed and stay out of the sun around midday.
The potentially record breaking temperatures is expected to put more pressure on the NHS.
While a Level 3 UK Health Security Agency alert has been issued, advising the health and care sector to look out for vulnerable people and those with underlying health conditions.
The government's Cobra emergency committee held a meeting on Thursday about the exceptional heat and Cabinet Office minister Kit Malthouse said the key thing was to "prepare" government services.
The Met Office said the hot weather was caused by high pressure over the UK and hot air flowing from southern Europe.