Level 4 warning of extreme heat for Cambridgeshire and Peterborough

Health experts are urging people to prepare for extreme heat on Monday and Tuesday with a level 4 red warning in place for Cambridgeshire and Peterborough.

The exceptionally hot temperatures mean that overnight temperatures may not fall below 20 Celsius in some locations, especially cities and larger towns.  

Cambridge currently holds the UK’s record high temperature of 38.7 Celsius – and there is a reasonable chance this will be beaten next week, with a risk of temperatures reaching an unprecedented 40 Celsius.

The Red alert has been issued as there is a risk to health from such high temperatures, not limited to those most vulnerable to extreme heat. This can lead to serious illness or be a danger to life. Much of the advice on beating the heat is common sense. Before hot weather arrives, it is a good time to think about what you can do to protect yourself and your family and friends from heat.

The top ways for staying safe when the heat arrives are to:

• Close curtains and windows during the day, when it is hotter outside and open them at night
• Drink plenty of fluids and avoid excess alcohol.
• Never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, especially infants, young children, vulnerable adults, or animals.
• Try to keep out of the sun between 11am to 3pm, when the UV rays are strongest.
• If you have to go outside in the heat, walk in the shade, apply sunscreen, cover up with clothing and wear a wide-brimmed hat.
• Avoid physical exertion during the hottest parts of the day.
• Make sure you take water with you if you are travelling.
• During warm weather, going for a swim or taking a cool shower can provide much welcomed relief.
• Please think twice before going into open water to cool-down as this can be dangerous, take care and follow local safety advice

Danger symptoms to watch out for in hot weather include:

• feeling faint and dizzy
• short of breath
• vomiting
• increasing confusion.

Take immediate action if danger symptoms of heatstroke are present:

• Take action to cool down as soon as possible
• Seek further advice from NHS 111, a doctor, or ring 999 if a person has collapsed.

Many prescription medicines can reduce your tolerance of heat. You should keep taking your medicine but take extra care to keep cool. If in doubt, contact your GP.

Cambridgeshire County Council’s Director for Public Health, Jyoti Atri, said: “We’re urging people across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough for prepare for the extreme heat on Monday and Tuesday. Temperatures could be excessive and could pose a danger to health. Please follow guidelines on how to beat the heat, including keeping yourself hydrated and to find shade where possible when UV rays are strongest, between 11am and 3pm.

“People are asked to look out for others, especially the elderly, babies and young children. Those with heart, respiratory and serious health problems are more at risk and the heat can make these conditions worse. Babies and young children are also especially at risk, particularly when they are in pushchairs or car seats.”

Press release from Cambridgeshire County Council

Photo credit: Met Office Website