Another weather warning as Bedfordshire braced for 'up to 38 degree' heat
People in Bedfordshire could be hit with nearly 40-degree heat this week as the Met Office issues a new warm weather warning.
An amber warning for extreme heat will come into affect at 9am on Thursday, August 13, until midnight.
The Met Office said: “The highest temperatures will be in parts of the east, southeast and the Midlands, where 37 or even 38 Celsius could be reached.
"This may lead to impacts on transport, infrastructure and health.”
The alert is in place across London, Oxford, Birmingham and as far north as Sheffield.
The whole of Bedfordshire will be affected – and people are told to expect some adverse effects from the sun, including heat exhaustion and sunburn.
Some heat sensitive equipment may fail, with the Met Office warning of potential power cuts to homes and businesses.
Drink plenty of fluids – but not alcohol as this dehydrates the body
Close curtains and blinds to keep homes cool
Wear sunscreen
Take cool showers or baths
Eat as usual to maintain energy
Keep out of the sun when it is at its strongest (between 11am and 3pm)
Dress in light-coloured clothing and wear a wide-brimmed hat
Ring NHS 111 if you are worried about yourself or someone else struggling with the weather
Keep water on you when travelling
Check routes for delays before leaving
Take a handheld fan onboard public transport
Be careful when entering water – cold water shock can be deadly, consider wearing a wetsuit, take a life jacket or swimming buoy in case you get into trouble
Check in on elderly or vulnerable people who may be worse affected by the heat
There is also another heat health alert in the region in place from 12pm today (Tuesday) to 9pm on Friday, August 14.
This has been given an impact score of 12 – meaning the impact of the weather and likelihood of issues are both at a medium level.
The government website read: “Significant impacts are likely across health and social care services due to the high temperatures.”