ALL of Cornwall to be affected by red 'level 4 emergency' heat health alert

The Met Office says there is a 100% chance of heatwave conditions for the Duchy

Author: Sarah YeomanPublished 15th Jul 2022

A red 'level 4 emergency' heat health alert has been issued for all of Cornwall.

The Met Office says it will be in force Monday through to Wednesday and there is a 100% probability of heatwave conditions across the South West.

A spokesperson said: "Renewed hot or very hot conditions develop across the country during this coming weekend and into the new working week, peaking on Monday and Tuesday, with some exceptional temperatures possible in places.

"The hottest locations are likely to be in parts of central and eastern England. This alert will be kept under daily review and updated as necessary."

You can find more information about the red heat health alert here.

A separate amber weather warning is now if force for all of the Duchy too, for Monday and Tuesday.

The Met Office has also issued its first ever rare red weather warning for extreme heat, which covers parts of the UK.

Forecasters say across the country, exceptional, perhaps record-breaking, temperatures are likely on Monday, then again on Tuesday.

Nights are also likely to be exceptionally warm for the UK, especially in urban areas.

This is likely to lead to widespread impacts on people and infrastructure. Temperatures are expected to drop away from Wednesday onwards.

What to expect

Adverse health effects are likely to be experienced by those vulnerable to extreme heat. Government advice is that 999 services should be used in emergencies only; seek advice from 111 if you need non-emergency health advice.

The wider population are likely to experience some adverse health effects including sunburn or heat exhaustion (dehydration, nausea, fatigue) and other heat related illnesses

Some changes in working practices and daily routines likely to be required

An increased chance that some heat-sensitive systems and equipment may fail, potentially leading to localised power cuts and the loss of other services to some homes and businesses

More people are likely to visit coastal areas, lakes and rivers leading to an increased risk of water safety incidents

Some delays to road, rail and air travel are possible, with potential for welfare issues for those who experience prolonged delays

What is the advice?

Look out for others, especially older people, young children and babies and those with underlying health conditions

Close curtains on rooms that face the sun to keep indoor spaces cooler and remember it may be cooler outdoors than indoors

Drink plenty of fluids and avoid excess alcohol, dress appropriately for the weather and slow down when it is hot

Be on the lookout for signs of heat related illness. Cool your skin with water, slow down and drink water

Call NHS 111 or in an emergency dial 999.

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