East braced for soaring temps as 'extreme heat' warning issued
We're being warned there could be a risk to public health this weekend
Last updated 12th Jul 2022
People in the East are being warned to brace themselves for soaring temperatures this week, with the Met Office warning there could be a risk for public health.
A Level Three heat health warning has been issued for the region from 9am on Monday to 9am on Friday.
The Met Office has said the mercury in central, southern and eastern England will soar this afternoon, amid a heatwave blasting the nation.
A further 'extreme heat' warning has also been issued for Sunday, with temperatures expected well into the 30s.
That means there is a risk to public health, with the Met Office saying it could cause some travel disruption or even power cuts.
Parts of the country will be hotter than some of the world's top beach destinations, including areas in Jamaica, the Maldives and the Bahamas, with the hot weather set to last possibly into next week.
On Monday, Wales recorded its hottest day of the year so far as the mercury reached 28.7C in Cardiff’s Bute Park.
In England, the temperature peaked at 32C in Northolt, west London.
England’s hottest day so far this year remains the 32.7C recorded at Santon Downham, in Suffolk, on June 17.
Met Office forecaster Simon Partridge told the PA news agency: “Parts of south-east England could exceed 35C on Sunday.
“At the moment, we are looking at a 30% chance of seeing the hottest temperature recorded in the UK.”
Possible travel disruption
Network Rail has warned speed restrictions are likely to be in place this week on some parts of the network most affected by the hot weather.
Fire services have urged people to have picnics instead of barbecues during the warm weather after a spate of grass fires.
The AA Driving School and RAC meanwhile said motorists should carry water with them, start their journeys earlier in the day, plan their routes and check their vehicles before setting off.
Hampshire County Council also said it was preparing to deploy gritters to protect cars against melting roads.
Advice
We're being urged to avoid the midday sun and stay indoors where possible.
For those who do have to go outside, the advice is to make sure you're wearing a high factor sun cream and consider sticking to the shade or wearing a hat.
We're also being encouraged to check on people who are vulnerable to make sure they're keeping hydrated and as cool as possible.