An amber heat health alert has been issued for significant portions of the United Kingdom as a mini-heatwave is poised to bring temperatures surpassing those experienced in Ibiza, with the potential to break records for September.
Elevated Alert Status
Initially marked with a yellow warning, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and the Met Office have escalated the heat-health alert to amber status across eight regions in England, including London. This alert spans from midday on Tuesday until 9 pm on Sunday.
Impacted Regions and Health Concerns
The regions included in the amber alert encompass the South-East, South-West, North-West, East Midlands, West Midlands, east of England, and Yorkshire and the Humber. This alert signifies that the weather’s impact is expected to extend throughout the healthcare system.
Vulnerable Populations at Risk
The UKHSA has cautioned that individuals aged 65 and above or those with pre-existing health conditions, such as heart or lung conditions, may face increased risks due to the heatwave.
Precautions Advised
Dr. Agostinho Sousa, Head of Extreme Events and Health Protection at UKHSA, emphasized the importance of taking sensible precautions while enjoying the sun and looking out for those who are more susceptible to heat-related effects. Staying hydrated and keeping cool is advised for everyone during hot weather.
Record-Breaking Heat
The heatwave is predicted to bring daytime temperatures reaching 32°C, peaking on Wednesday and Thursday when the UK could experience temperatures 4°C higher than the Spanish island of Ibiza. It is even expected to surpass temperatures in Ayia Napa, Cyprus (30°C), and Athens, Greece (27°C).
Potential for Record Nighttime Temperatures
This heatwave will also bring “uncomfortably warm” nights, particularly in the south, where “tropical nights” are anticipated, meaning temperatures won’t drop below 20°C. Forecasters suggest that the record for the highest overnight minimum temperature for September (currently at 21.7°C) could be broken on Wednesday and Thursday nights.
Unusual Weather Patterns
The unusual weather patterns are attributed to tropical storms in the western Atlantic and deep areas of low pressure that have amplified the jet stream over the Atlantic Ocean, leading to high pressure dominating over the UK. While temperatures could reach 31°C on Friday, there is currently no indication of another strong heatwave beyond this period.
Climate Change Implications
The increasing likelihood and extremity of heatwaves are linked to climate change, with last year seeing the UK record temperatures above 40°C for the first time. Scientists have emphasized that such extreme temperatures would have been nearly impossible without the influence of climate change.
Striking Sunsets Due to Saharan Dust
In addition to the heatwave, striking sunsets have graced the UK recently, attributed to “Saharan dust.” This phenomenon is expected to cover parts of the country later in the week, adding another meteorological element to the ongoing weather situation.
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