Rare Amber Extreme Heat warning issued for Manchester as temperatures forecast to soar

The Met Office has issued an extreme heat warning to the public as temperatures are forecast to soar in the coming days.

The rare Amber Extreme Heat warning is in effect from this weekend, with the heat expected to peak on Monday and Tuesday.

Daily highs of 25-31C are forecast for Manchester between Saturday and Tuesday, with temperature highs of 22C overnight.

The Met office is forecasting highs of 27C in Manchester on Sunday, which will rise to 30C on Monday and 31C on Tuesday.

According to the BBC’s forecast things could get even hotter, with expected highs of 31C on Monday (although temperatures will feel like 33C) and 32C on Tuesday (with it feeling like 35C).

Things are then forecast to cool down, with thunderstorms starting Tuesday night and carrying on into Wednesday, and temperatures dropping to around 21C.

Met Office Deputy Chief Meteorologist Rebekah Sherwin said: “Today (July 12th), temperatures are likely to peak at 31°C in the southeast, with warm weather likely to continue throughout this week and it looks likely to ramp up late this week and into early next week. 

“From Sunday and into Monday, temperatures are likely to be in excess of 35°C in the southeast, although the details still remain uncertain. Elsewhere, temperatures could be fairly widely above 32°C in England and Wales, and in the mid-to-high 20s Celsius further north.” 

Dr Agostinho Sousa, Head of Extreme Events and Health Protection at UKHSA, said: “Heat-health alerts have now been issued to the majority of the country, with temperatures set to remain consistently high throughout the duration of this week.

“Most of us can enjoy the hot weather when it arrives, but it is important to keep yourself hydrated and to find shade where possible when UV rays are strongest, between 11am and 3pm.

“If you have vulnerable family, friends and neighbours, make sure they are aware of how they can keep themselves protected from the warm weather.’’ 

The Met Office has released a list of the top ways to stay safe when the heat arrives: 

• Look out for those who may struggle to keep themselves cool and hydrated. Older people, those with underlying conditions and those who live alone are particularly at risk.
• If you live alone, ask a relative or friend to phone to check that you are not having difficulties during periods of extreme heat.
• Stay cool indoors: Close curtains on rooms that face the sun to keep indoor spaces cooler and remember it may be cooler outdoors than indoors.
• If going outdoors, use cool spaces considerately. 
• Drink plenty of fluids and avoid excess alcohol. 
• Never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, especially infants, young children or animals.
• Try to keep out of the sun between 11am to 3pm, when the UV rays are strongest.
• Walk in the shade, apply sunscreen and wear a wide-brimmed hat, if you have to go out in the heat.
• Avoid physical exertion in the hottest parts of the day.
• Make sure you take water with you, if you are travelling.
• Check the latest weather forecast and temperature warnings – you can find these on TV, radio, mobile app or website.
• During warm weather going for a swim can provide much welcomed relief, take care and follow local safety advice, if you are going into open water to cool down.

Make sure you stay safe out there, Manchester!