Prepare for another scorcher!

News Desk
Authored by News Desk
Posted Tuesday, July 19, 2016 - 8:53am

The vulnerable and elderly were today warned to take extra care as temperatures were expected to hit up to 31C.

Devon is in for another scorching day with wall to wall sunshine.

Hot weather can cause heat exhaustion in people and animals. Also, bacteria on food and rubbish develop more quickly in the heat.

It's important to be aware of friends and neighbours during a heatwave and to let people know if you are on your own and have any concerns. Heat stroke is a life-threatening condition and can develop if heat exhaustion is left untreated.

The Met Office five-day forecast is as follows:

Today:

A very warm or hot day with largely clear skies and light southerly winds. Some patchy high cloud will arrive from the west towards the evening. Maximum Temperature 31 °C (Exeter).

Tonight:
A very warm and humid night, especially further east. It will be largely dry, but turn cloudier towards the morning. Minimum Temperature 14 °C.

Wednesday:
Another warm day with plenty of sunny spells. However it will be cloudier than today, particularly in the morning with the risk of a shower. Maximum Temperature 25 °C.

Outlook for Thursday to Saturday:

Feeling cooler and fresher, although still pleasantly warm for most. There will be occasional showers or longer spells of rain, particularly on Friday, but also plenty of sunny spells.

Tips for coping in hot weather


Shut windows and pull down the shades when it is hotter outside. If it's safe, open them for ventilation when it is cooler.

Avoid the heat: stay out of the sun and don't go out between 11am and 3pm (the hottest part of the day) if you're vulnerable to the effects of heat.

Keep rooms cool by using shades or reflective material outside the windows. If this isn't possible, use light-coloured curtains and keep them closed (metallic blinds and dark curtians can make the room hotter).

Have cool baths or showers, and splash yourself with cool water.

Drink cold drinks regularly, such as water and diluted fruit juice. Avoid excess alcohol, caffeine (tea, coffee and cola) or drinks high in sugar.

Listen to alerts on the radio, TV and social media about keeping cool.

Plan ahead to make sure you have enough supplies, such as food, water and any medications you need.

Identify the coolest room in the house so you know where to go to keep cool.

Wear loose, cool clothing, and a hat and sunglasses if you go outdoors.

Check up on friends, relatives and neighbours who may be less able to look after themselves.

If you're worried about yourself or a vulnerable neighbour, friend or relative, you can contact the local environmental health office at your local authority.

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