Arabic version: المملكة المتحدة تمدد تحذيرات الحرارة الكهرمانية بعد تحطيم رقم أيام 34 درجة مئوية
Emergency amber heat health alerts were extended across northern England on Thursday as the third heatwave of the year pushed temperatures to 35.5C in Surrey.
According to BBC News, the alerts now cover almost all of England and are in force until 21:00 BST on Sunday, indicating likely significant impacts on health services and possible travel disruption.
Rail passengers faced rush-hour cancellations, delays and speed restrictions as operators reported heat-related problems. East Midlands Railway reported several cancellations and alterations, while Great Western Railway, South Western Railway and London Northwestern Railway warned of disruption; Transport for Wales and c2c reported speed restrictions, with c2c suspending some services through Friday. The high temperatures also contributed to increased pressure on ambulance services, with NHS England warning many ambulance services were under “sustained pressure” and asking the public to “take the heat seriously”.
Thursday’s peak of 35.5C created a record eighth day this year with temperatures at or above 34C, breaking the previous total of seven days seen in 1976 and 2020. A further reading at or above 34C was expected as the heatwave peaked on Friday. Wales recorded 31.3C in Cardiff, Scotland 29.3C in Charterhall and Northern Ireland 27.5C in Killowen. The worst of the heat was recorded in south-eastern England, and temperatures could persist at above-average levels possibly until the end of next week.
The heat also affected services and safety advice. Neso requested more power be made available and warned of “tight electricity margins” on Thursday evening, while not suggesting a risk of shortages or blackouts. Public bodies urged precautions: the Royal College of Paramedics advised drinking enough water, supporting those who may be vulnerable with access to cooling systems, and trying to stay out of the sun when the heat tends to peak from 12:00-16:00; the Welsh Ambulance Service warned dehydration and fatigue from the heat could cause falls; South Wales Fire and Rescue cautioned about open water; and the National Fire Chiefs Council warned of increased wildfire risk and advised against disposable barbecues in open countryside, parks and moorlands. At Wimbledon, organisers provided additional water, electrolytes, iced towels and umbrellas, and a 10-minute break can be requested between sets if temperature and humidity thresholds are met.
