Brits search NHS for heatstroke advice as today could be hottest day of the year so far
For a record-breaking sixth September day in a row, the UK looks set to record highs of more than 30C - before thunderstorms and heavy rain arrive.
Saturday 9 September 2023 15:24, UK
With temperatures looking set to top 30C today, the NHS has reported a surge in Brits seeking advice on heat exhaustion.
On Thursday, the Met Office recorded the hottest day of the year so far, with 32.6C in Surrey, but it could be even warmer this weekend with highs of 33C predicted.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), which provides alerts for the health and social care sector in England, has issued an Amber Heat Health Alert across most of the country until 9pm on Sunday 10 September.
The warning comes as the NHS revealed a 553% surge in people visiting its website for heat exhaustion and heatstroke advice.
There were 32,130 visits to the health advice page on from Sunday to Thursday this week, according to figures released by NHS England.
Only 4,928 visits were made during the same period last week.
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The UKHSA's warning highlights the increased risks for those more vulnerable to heat, including children, people over the age of 65 or with pre-existing health conditions.
Dame Ruth May, England's chief nursing officer, said: "Keeping the body cool and drinking plenty of fluids is vitally important, as well as dressing sensibly.
"We also advise using high-factor sun screen and limiting the amount of time you spend in the sun to avoid the risk of sunburn and to prevent skin cancer."
Anyone showing signs of heat exhaustion needs to be cooled down and given fluids, the NHS advises.
If they do not improve after 30 minutes, seek medical attention by calling 111 or 999.
Other tips to avoid heat exhaustion include consuming plenty of cold drinks, taking cool baths and wearing light-coloured, loose clothing.
People should avoid excess alcohol, extreme exercise and spending time in the sun between 11am and 3pm.
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The UK has this week seen temperatures hit 30C for the fifth day in a row in September for the first time, the Met Office has said.
Sky News weather producer Steff Gaulter said there is a "good chance" Saturday will be the new hottest day of the year, with temperatures expected to climb to 33C.
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While the heat is here to stay for the weekend, a yellow thunderstorm warning is also in place for much of central England and parts of east Wales.
Gaulter said: "This weekend is also when we'll see the hot weather start to break down.
"Because there's so much heat around giving so much energy to the atmosphere, there's also the risk we could see some pretty active thunderstorms pop up on Sunday."