Take precautions: Heat-health warnings in effect

Heat-health warnings have been issued across England for the rest of this week as temperatures continue to build due to a blocking pattern of pressures.

With a high-pressure system stuck over the UK and Ireland, temperatures continue to build, coming to a peak this afternoon where we see forecasted highs of 30°C across regions in the south and Midlands. This pattern persists into the weekend.

Warnings were first issued on Tuesday at a yellow level, before being raised to an amber level across all of England except the north-east.

Amber level heat-health warnings, issued by the UK Health Security Agency, indicate that the effects of heat will be felt across the whole health service with the potential for the whole population to be at risk.

It also indicates that a coordinated approach to the situation is required from authorities. Only a red alert is higher than amber, this indicates a significant risk to life and was used last year when the UK recorded 40°C for the first time ever.

The current amber alerts came into effect midday Tuesday and will remain active until 09:00 pm Sunday, September 10.

The sun is at its hottest between midday and 3pm. Try to limit exposure to the sun during these period. Walk in the shade where possible. Avoid exercising during the hottest part of the day.

Drink plenty of water and avoid excessive amounts of alcohol, if symptoms of dehydration show it means your body is already dehydrated.

Never leave children or animals unattended in a car or other enclosed space. Temperatures can rise considerably more in unventilated areas.

Keep track of temperatures in your area, and around the world, with the TemperatureRadar.