Record breaking temperatures soaring here in South
As temperatures rise, how is the South coping?
Today and tomorrow could be on the UK’s hottest on record, with predictions of temperatures rising above 40 degrees for the first time, a national emergency has been declared and an amber alert issued for the South.
But how are we coping here in the South of England?
Schools across the South are remaining open but are adapting their usual rules to make for a more comfortable experience for students. The Prince of Wales School in Dorchester have dropped their uniform, letting students wear their own clothes to help keep them cool in the classroom. Headteacher, Gary Spracklen says ‘it’s about being sensible in the heat’. Some schools in Hampshire are also choosing to close, including Petersfield School and Costello School.
In Sussex, the hot weather has caused travel chaos, rail passengers are being urged to avoid travelling on the train as Southern and Southeastern are experiencing delays and cancellations. Engineer for Network Rail, Daniel Collins told us speed restrictions are in place to limit the risk of tracks bulking in the heat.
Along the coast, Dorset Council have asked people visiting beaches to be careful and safe. They’ve issued a warning for a rockfalls along the Heritage coastline as the risk increases during extreme temperatures.
Some businesses are feeling the heat too, with the heatwave creating a loss of customers. In Southampton, Ice Cream Van owner, Ally Murzer told us of the decline in profits as he is experiencing little to no customers due to the heatwave. He was expecting to see ice cream sales soar in the warm weather, but the stay-at-home advice and hot temperatures see little visitors to his van.
Isle of Wight council has expressed concern for those with health conditions in the heat. Councillor Karl Love has said severe heat is dangerous for all, especially for people with respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.
Top tips in the heatwave
According to government advice, here’s what they are advising to do during the heatwave.
- Stay out of the heat, cool yourself down, keep your environment cool or find somewhere else that is cool.
- Look out for neighbours, family or friends who may be isolated and unable to care for themselves; make sure they are able to keep cool during a heatwave.
- Get medical advice if you are suffering from a chronic medical condition or taking multiple medications.
- Make sure medicines are stored below 25°C or in the fridge (read the storage instructions on the packaging).
- Carry on taking all prescribed medicines unless advised not to by a medical professional. But be aware that some prescription medicines can reduce your tolerance of heat.
For more advice, see the Beat the heat: staying safe in hot weather.