The UK is on high alert for extreme heat

The extreme heat wave that is sweeping Europe has also hit the UK, where the authorities have issued aalert Amber (the highest grade) from Thursday 11th to Sunday 14th August. The alarm was raised by the British Meteorological Service, Met officefollowing the forecasts of rising temperatures up to 35 degreesin much of England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.

After going through the hottest July ever, with the thermometers first arrived above 40 degrees in several parts of the UK, high pressure and incredible drought continue to hit the country, increasing the risk of fires and water restrictions on water use. Many companies have already taken action, for example by imposing the it is forbidden to use pumps to water the garden, fill swimming pools or wash the car.

“Water companies are already dealing with the unprecedented effects of drier winter and spring since the 1970s and, with warmer and drier weather forecasts, it is vital to be even more aware of our water use to minimize peak demand and make sure there is enough of it“ has declared Peter Jenkins, communications director of Water UK, the largest water company in the country.

The authorities have warned the most vulnerable people of possible negative health effects, specifying however that the entire population could be at risk due to the extreme heat. In addition, the Met office warned of possible transport delays, accidents in coastal areas and an increase in fires. While the UK Health Security Agency has issued an amber alert covering southern and central England as early as last Tuesday 9 August, until 6pm on Saturday.