An amber alert has been issued by the Met Office for extreme heat in Cumbria next week.
While much of the country has already been issued with warnings for this week and the weekend, including a red warning in place for some areas, Cumbria’s warning comes into force from Monday at midnight.
The Met Office said: “After a very warm night, hot weather, already underway across other parts of England and Wales is expected to develop more widely across Wales, southwest and northern England, plus southern Scotland.
“Some exceptionally high temperatures are possible, both by day and by night, for Monday and Tuesday. This following a warm weekend, will likely bring widespread impacts to people and infrastructure.”
What to expect
- Adverse health effects are likely to be experienced by those vulnerable to extreme heat. Government advice is that 999 services should be used in emergencies only; seek advice from 111 if you need non-emergency health advice.
- The wider population are likely to experience some adverse health effects including sunburn or heat exhaustion (dehydration, nausea, fatigue) and other heat related illnesses
- Some changes in working practices and daily routines likely to be required
- An increased chance that some heat-sensitive systems and equipment may fail, potentially leading to localised power cuts and the loss of other services to some homes and businesses
- More people are likely to visit coastal areas, lakes and rivers leading to an increased risk of water safety incidents
- Some delays to road, rail and air travel are possible, with potential for welfare issues for those who experience prolonged delays
Train firms, including TransPennine Express, are warning that people are likely to face delays and cancellations as speed restrictions will be implemented on lines from Monday.
And the Lake District National Park Authority has reminded people that they need to take care as the weather hots up.
Lake District National Park Authority lake ranger Jack Holmes is urging people to keep their cool in Lake District waters during this heatwave and all summer season.
He said: “While the water is very tempting with the current weather conditions, it’s important that people plan ahead and make sure they have all the knowledge and skills they need to keep safe. It’s imperative that people don’t get tempted to go for a dip after drinking alcohol as that’s never a good idea.
“Our deep lakes and tarns in the Lake District can be cold, even on a hot summer’s day. Sudden exposure to cold water can cause cold water shock which can cause swimmers to gasp and inhale water. This can quickly lead to drowning.
“Other considerations for potential swimmers to take in account are to think about other lake users like ferry services and other boating traffic. People should be aware that there are often rocks and hazards under the water that you can’t see, and the water may be shallower than you think near our jetties so please don’t just jump in and hope for the best.”
10 things to think about about when swimming in the Lake District
- Enter the water slowly to get used to it.
- If you do find yourself struggling for breath due to cold water, remember the Float to Live tactic.
- Swim with a friend or as part of a group.
- Wear a wetsuit to keep you warmer and more buoyant.
- Use a tow float and bright swim cap to make you more visible.
- If possible, have an accompanying canoe, kayak or paddle board.
- Check the depth and the water bed by walking in carefully.
- Work out where you will exit the water easily.
- Don’t stay in too long.
- Stay close to the shoreline to avoid boating traffic and to ensure you can get out easily if you need to.
United Utilities has warned people not to swim in its reservoirs – including Haweswater, Thirlmere, Cogra Moss and Crummock Water – because they are more dangerous than they appear.
Heat puts additional strain on people’s bodies, so keeping safe on the fells during high temperatures is also important.
Lake District National Park experts said they encouraged everyone, even seasoned fell walkers, to plan their route in advance, take plenty of water and sun screen and layers of clothes to keep safe this summer.
People are reminded to make sure that they have the correct knowledge, skills and equipment and know what impact the weather forecast will have on them.
There is an increased risk of wildfires and the Lake District National Park has reminded visitors that barbecues and camp fires are not permitted anywhere in the National Park other than designated campsites where prior permission has been granted.
