UK weather – live: No 10 urged to declare drought emergency amid ‘lethal’ heatwave

The Liberal Democrats have urged ministers to declare a national drought emergency and hold weekly televised press conferences to update the public on guidance to limit water usage.

The declaration would mean a cabinet minister take responsibility for ensuring rivers, chalk streams and reservoirs do not dry up.

The party has also called for a strategy to ensure farmers can water their crops, and make sure resources are directed to parts of the country which have the least amount of water.

It comes as the environment secretary George Eustice implored water companies to make efforts to protect essential supplies as the country moves into “a likely very dry autumn.”

Meanwhile, experts have warned that the second heatwave sweeping across the UK could cause more deaths despite bringing lower temperatures than those of July.

“This summer in the UK is proving to be lethally hot,” Hannah Cloke, Professor of Hydrology at the University of Reading.

She added: “We know that the most dangerous heat conditions are caused when people, particularly those with underlying health conditions, have no respite from the heat for days and nights on end.”

Key Points

• Government must declare drought emergency as water supplies dwindle, Lib Dems say

• Water companies urged to protect essential supply ahead of ‘dry autumn’

• Experts warn of ‘lethally hot’ conditions as second heatwave ‘could cause more deaths’

• Fire brigades fear number of deliberate fires could soar over summer

• Thames Water to impose hosepipe ban in ‘coming weeks’

First week of August sees huge year-on-year rise in wildfires

10:00 , Andy Gregory

There were a staggering 45 wildfires in the UK in the first week of August, according to the National Fire Chiefs’ Council (NFCC).

This is vastly more than the one wildfire seen during the same period last year, and the seven witnessed during that week in 2020.

The NFCC only records significant wildfires that meet one or more of its criteria, which includes that it impacts an area bigger than one hectare, has sustained flame lengths of more than 1.5 metres or presents a serious threat to life, environment, property and infrastructure.

Seperately, the London Fire Brigade has warned that its crews tackled 340 grass, rubbish and open land fires in first week of August, compared to 42 fires in same week last year – consituting an eightfold rise.

Premier League matches ‘to feature mid-half water breaks this weekend’

09:39 , Andy Gregory

As a result of the heatwave, this weekend’s Premier League matches will feature one-minute water breaks in the middle of each half, according to The Times.

The newspaper reports that the league will enforce its rule that all games played in greater than 30C heat can feature breaks for rehydration.

Fire service chief warns of ‘unprecedented’ conditions

09:27 , Andy Gregory

The conditions currently facing firefighters are “unprecedented”, the assistant commissioner of the London Fire Brigade has said.

Urging people to avoid using disposable barbecues and to take care when extinguishing cigarettes, Jonathan Smith told Sky News: “The situation as we face it at the moment is that the ground is very, very dry – unprecedented in terms of the conditions that we face.

“We haven’t had significant rainfall now for some time, and what we really want to do is to prevent these fires from happening before they begin.”

Mr Smith added: “We’re urging the public to think about and modify their behaviour over the course of the next four days in particular to take that pressure off the emergency services ... we’re not out of the woods as far as this heatwave is concerned.”

In pictures: UK land and waterways parched amid sustained heat

09:13 , Andy Gregory

Here are some of the most recent images from photojournalists illustrating the impact of the recent bout of heat in the UK:

Met Office warns of adverse health effects and travel delays in extreme heat alert

09:05 , Andy Gregory

An amber warning for extreme heat is now in force and will remain in place until midnight on Sunday across most of the southern half of England and the east of Wales.

Here is what the Met Office has said people in the affected areas should expect:

• Adverse health effects are likely to be experienced by those vulnerable to extreme heat.

• 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 are likely to be required.

• There is an increased chance that some heat-sensitive systems and equipment may fail.

• More people are likely to visit coastal areas, lakes, rivers and other beauty spots, leading to an increased risk of water safety and fire-related incidents.

• Some delays to road, rail and air travel are possible, with the potential for welfare issues for those who experience prolonged delays.

Impacts of climate breakdown in UK ‘coming sooner than expected’, former chief scientific advisor warns

08:52 , Andy Gregory

The impacts of climate breakdown in the UK are “worse than we expected” and are “coming sooner than we expected”, a former chief scientific advisor to the government has warned.

Asked whether the conditions the UK is currently experiencing are worse than predicted, Sir David King, who was also the government’s permanent special representative for climate change until 2017, told Sky News: “It is worse than we expected and it is all coming sooner than we expected.

“I think we now do have an understanding of these extreme weather events, they are occurring of course right across Europe, it’s not just Britain suffering both from drought and extreme temperatures. It’s, I believe, driven by what’s happening in the Arctic circle region where ice has been melting much more rapidly than predicted.

“Now during the three polar summer months, which is right now, much of the arctic ocean is exposed to sunlight – whereas before it was covered with ice so it was reflected back into space. So that heating of the Arctic circle region is the cause of what we are looking at.”

He added: “We have now got to anticipate this kind of weather going into the future, and if anything getting worse.”

Water industry doing ‘everything possible’ to stop leaks, industry body insists

08:31 , Andy Gregory

It is a “constant battle” to stop water leakage but the industry is doing “everything possible” to do so, the director of policy at Water UK has said.

“Although we are currently seeing the lowest level of leakage on record, it is a constant battle because, particularly in hot, dry conditions, what happens is the soil dries out, cracks, and it moves, and that puts additional pressure on the pipes, and that can cause additional bursts,” Stuart Colville told BBC Breakfast.

Mr Colville said that it is looking “increasingly inevitable” that the Environment Agency will declare a drought for England, adding this would be the “right decision given some of the pressure on the environment that we’re seeing at the moment”.

Most water firms plan to cut leakage by at least 15 per cent between 2020 and 2025, but Ofwat’s most recent annual report said that only 13 companies were on track towards this target in 2020-2021, according to the BBC.

‘No relief for parched land,’ Met Office warns

08:10 , Andy Gregory

With England having experienced its driest July in 87 years, the immediate forecast offers “no relief for parched land” in the south, according to the Met Office.

“With high pressure dominant this week, any showers this week will be contained to the far northwest, and even here they will be short-lived in nature,” said the national forecaster’s deputy chief meteorologist Dan Rudman.

“Further south, which has seen little rain for some time now, it will continue dry through the week providing no relief for parched land, especially in the southeast.

“Some change to more unsettled conditions is then signalled but, as is often the case during the summer, details a week or more in advance of showers and rain are highly uncertain.”

Firefighters ‘won’t be able to answer all calls’ as services at ‘crisis point'

07:55 , Andy Gregory

Here’s more from The Independent’s front page report this morning, in which senior firefighters warned they will not be able to attend all call-outs as the second deadly heatwave in weeks stretches services already at “crisis point”.

Riccardo la Torre, from the Fire Brigades Union, said crews couldn’t attend all calls in July and he was “convinced” the picture would be the same for this heatwave given that “we are going to be facing the same conditions, with the same severely decimated resources”.

“I don’t think we can publicly any longer have the expectation the fire services is equipped to deal with incidents and conditions such as what we are experiencing at the moment,” Mr la Torre said.

My colleagues Zoe Tidman and Saphora Smith have the full story here:

Firefighters ‘won’t be able to answer all calls’ as heatwaves push services to limit

Temperatures to ‘rise rapidly’ today, Met Office says

07:40 , Andy Gregory

Temperatures will “rise rapidly” today, the Met Office has said, with the mercury forecast to reach 22C by 9am across the south of the UK.

The heat is then expected to hit peaks of 33C by 3pm in the southeast, remaining in the high 20s in northwest England until at least 8pm.

Services across the UK 'completely unprepared' for risk posed by heatwave, Fire Brigades Union warns

07:14 , Stuti Mishra

Riccardo La Torre, national officer for the Fire Brigades Union, has warned that services across the UK are “completely unprepared” for the level of risk posed by the imminent heatwave.

Mr La Torre told Sky News: “These are brutal, brutal fires to fight. The temperature that they burn at, the speed at which they spread at.“The reality is we’ve been left completely unprepared to do that as a fire and rescue service.

“We’ve had over a fifth of the workforce cut since 2010, that’s over 11,500 firefighters cut. Yet we’re asking them to deal with these extreme weather events in increasing regularity and increasing severity.

“The professionals on the ground have been warning that these conditions are coming and we very much saw the reality of that in these last few weeks.

“Firefighters have been injured, firefighters have ended up in hospital, we’ve seen families lose their homes, we’ve seen businesses lost, infrastructure burn to the ground, because we simply can’t get to these fires quick enough.

“When we do, we simply don’t have the resources to deal with them adequately.”

'Exceptional wildfire risk' in place amid heatwave

07:05 , Stuti Mishra

Parts of England and Wales face an “exceptional” risk of wildfires as an amber heat warming comes into force with temperatures forecast to hit 36C in some parts of the UK over the next four days.

The Met Office has raised the Fire Severity Index to exceptional - the highest level - for much of southern England, and stretching as far west as Abergavenny in Wales for Sunday.

“The risk is very high across much of central, southern and eastern England,” Met Office meteorologist Marco Petagna said speaking about wildfires.

“Going into Friday and the weekend, it starts to increase further, going into the highest category of exceptional risk.”

Four-day extreme heat warning comes into effect

06:58 , Stuti Mishra

The Met Office alert for southern and central England and parts of Wales for extreme heat has come into effect from midnight last night, and is supposed to last till Sunday.

Temperatures are expected to go up to 36C in some parts with alerts for blazes and health-related concerns in place.

There is also an increased risk of water safety incidents, the Met Office warned.

Met Office meteorologist Marco Petagna said that the temperatures would “widely” be in the 30s across the UK, peaking locally in the mid-30s on Saturday.

“I think the hottest day will probably be Saturday, where we could see 36C in one or two spots,” he said.

Police smash window to save dog locked inside sweltering car

Wednesday 10 August 2022 21:18 , Joe Middleton

Police officers in Nottingham smashed a car window to rescue a distressed dog that collapsed after being left in a sweltering car.

The desperate Shih Tzu was left in the vehicle at a park and ride close to the city centre, when temperatures soared to 33C on Monday (8 August).

Bodycam footage shows officers smash the window of the car and haul the panting pooch to safety.

The dog was given water and rushed to an animal hospital where his temperature was recorded at 39.1C. He is making a “good recovery”.

Police smash window to rescue dog locked inside sweltering car

Bristol’s River Avon reduced to a muddy trickle amid high temperatures

Wednesday 10 August 2022 20:30 , Joe Middleton

The impact of the heatwave and drought on Bristol are clearly visible from the cliffs of the Avon Gorge, where the river below is a muddy trickle.

Grass on the Clifton Downs overlooking the gorge is parched and the area remains quiet, with very few people braving the daily heat to enjoy the sunshine.

The Met Office has issued a four-day amber extreme heat warning - from Thursday until Sunday - with temperatures in some parts of the UK expected to reach up to 35C.

Bristol’s River Avon reduced to a muddy trickle amid UK heatwave

Temperatures hit 30C across most of England and Wales on Wednesday, say Met Office

Wednesday 10 August 2022 19:00 , Joe Middleton

Tom Morgan, a meteorologist with the Met Office, said temperatures had reached 30C quite widely across England and Wales on Wednesday.

The latest heatwave was not expected to produce the record-breaking temperatures seen in July, where thermometers climbed above 40C for the first time in the UK, but would still be notable - with some areas getting close to their local or regional records - and lengthy.

“We’re looking at a pretty extended spell of hot weather, with a good seven days of temperatures of 30C or so in some places,” Mr Morgan said.

Areas in UK hit by water shortages as heatwave hits

Wednesday 10 August 2022 18:00 , Joe Middleton

Drought and cost of living crises may ‘force people out of farming'

Wednesday 10 August 2022 17:03 , Emily Atkinson

Droughts and rising costs due to inflation will “force people out of farming”, and workers need to “talk to each other” if struggling, farmers have said.

British farmers have detailed the difficulties caused by drought, which has forced an earlier harvest and will leave them struggling to store and sell goods.

This comes as a four-day amber warning for extreme heat in parts of England is due to come into effect from Thursday, with temperatures set to climb to 36C in some places.

Andrew Francis, 55, from Breckland, Norfolk, who grows root vegetables and combinable crops, detailed the difficulties caused by early harvesting after the grain season only had 35% of its long-term average rainfall.

He said it is a “really difficult commercial environment to try and diversify in” because farming profit margins have “eroded so much over the last few years”, leaving no “resilience funds” for a lot of farm owners.

PA

Beavers helping to tackle environmental impact of heatwaves, National Trust says

Wednesday 10 August 2022 16:32 , Emily Atkinson

Already heralded as playing a highly effective role in reducing flood risks, the return of beavers to the UK is also demonstrating how the species protect environments from the impacts of hot, dry weather.

With another heatwave building across Britain and millions of people subject to hosepipe bans, the National Trust has warned the record dry spell is taking a heavy toll on the landscapes, watercourses, plants and animals across its estates.

But one area where the impacts have been considerably reduced are those sites where beavers have been reintroduced.

Our environment correspondent Harry Cockburn has more:

Beavers helping to tackle environmental impact of heatwaves, National Trust says

Watch: Areas in UK hit by water shortages as heatwave hits

Wednesday 10 August 2022 16:02 , Emily Atkinson

Grass fire blazes in Rainham

Wednesday 10 August 2022 15:30 , Emily Atkinson

Ten fire engines and around 70 firefighters have been called to a grass fire on Lambs Lane in Rainham, east London, the London Fire Brigade (LFB) has said.

Firefighters are tackling a grass fire where two large areas of grass are alight.

Firefighters were first called at 1.43pm and were joined by crews from Dagenham, Hornchurch, Barking, East Ham and other surrounding fire stations are at the scene.

The cause of the fire is not known at this stage.

Government must declare drought emergency as water supplies dwindle, Lib Dems say

Wednesday 10 August 2022 14:57 , Emily Atkinson

The government should declare a national drought emergency and hold weekly televised press conferences to update the public on guidance to limit water use, the Liberal Democrats have said.

The party said there had been “mixed messages” in recent weeks, and declaring a drought emergency would see a cabinet minister take responsibility for ensuring rivers, chalk streams and reservoirs do not dry up.

It should include a strategy to ensure farmers can water their crops, and resources are directed to parts of the country which have the least amount of water, the party said.

Our climate correspondent Saphora Smith reports:

Lib Dems urge government to declare national drought emergency as water supplies fall

Water companies urged to protect essential supply for ‘dry autumn’

Wednesday 10 August 2022 14:36 , Emily Atkinson

The government has urged water companies to make efforts to protect essential supplies as the country moves into “a likely very dry autumn.”

The environment secretary and environment minister Steve Double met with the CEOs of water companies this morning to discuss the ongoing response to the prolonged dry weather.

George Eustice said: “All water companies have reassured me that water supplies remain resilient across the country. Each company has a pre-agreed drought plan which they are following, and I have urged them to take any precautionary steps needed to protect essential supplies as we go into a likely very dry autumn.

“We are better prepared than ever before for periods of dry weather with a system that is working well to manage water usage, protect the environment and maintain water supplies for the public and critical sectors. We will continue to actively monitor the situation, working alongside partners including the Environment Agency.”

Fire brigades fear number of deliberate fires could soar over summer

Wednesday 10 August 2022 14:14 , Emily Atkinson

The London Fire Brigade (LFB) fears that the number of deliberate fires could rise over the summer holidays, after it recorded a record low attendence to such incidents for 20 years in 2021.

It follows a significant grass fire in Feltham last week believed to have been started deliberately

The Brigade has seen more than a 90 per cent reduction in the number of deliberate fires since 2001, with firefighters attending 2,236 deliberate fires last year in comparison to 33,497 deliberate fires in 2001.

Despite the recent downwards trend, the Brigade is concerned that the number of deliberate grass fires could spike over the period of hot weather London has seen which has made the ground tinder dry.

Assistant commissioner for fire safety Charlie Pugsley said:“Whilst the dry and sunny spells of weather will be great for families looking to spend time outside over the summer holidays, it also means that the risk of grass fires is going to increase as the ground becomes dryer. Talk to your children about how dangerous it is to play with fire, keep matches and lighters out of sight and if you’re worried about a child or young person who has set fires get in touch with our Firesetters Intervention Scheme (FIS).”

UK heatwave: Forecast in your area as sweltering temperatures could reach 36C

Wednesday 10 August 2022 13:45 , Emily Atkinson

The UK is facing another scorchingheatwave this week as temperatures could hit 36C during a four day warning for extreme heat.

The Met Office expects conditions to peak on Saturday and Sunday, just weeks after the country saw a record-breaking 40C heatwave in July. A heat health alert is in place from the UK Health Security Agency, with experts advising people to look out for those who are older or with existing health conditions, as well as young children.

It comes as months of low rainfall and hot spells have left parts of the UK facing drought, prompting hosepipe bans and warnings on the impact on agriculture, rivers and wildlife.

Zoe Tidman reports:

UK heatwave forecast in your area as sweltering temperatures could reach 36C

Latest forecast update from the Met Office

Wednesday 10 August 2022 13:10 , Emily Atkinson

Watch: Areas in UK hit by water shortages as heatwave hits

Wednesday 10 August 2022 12:36 , Emily Atkinson

Fire and subsidence claims ‘may rise due to extreme temperatures’

Wednesday 10 August 2022 12:05 , Emily Atkinson

A major insurer is warning of increases in fire and subsidence claims due to extreme weather.

LV= General Insurance (GI) said it is dealing with claims costs totalling £1.2 million following the extreme heat and fire related incidents between July 17 and 20.

The majority of claims were caused by a fire starting in a nearby open area or heathland which spread into homeowners’ gardens, it said.

Many claims involve the loss of garages, fences, greenhouses, sheds and tools, garden furniture, and decking as well as lost trees, shrubs and flowers. In a minority of cases, claims involve the total loss of a home.

PA

Mercury 'to reach 33C for four consecutive days’

Wednesday 10 August 2022 11:39 , Emily Atkinson

The mercury is likely to reach at least 33C for four days in a row from Thursday onwards, forecasters have warned.

The extreme heat warning issued by the Met Office across parts of England and Wales will run concurrently to the scorching weather, starting at 12am on Thursday and remaining in place until 11.59pm on Sunday.

Oxfordshire village runs out of water as lethal heatwave looms

Wednesday 10 August 2022 11:10 , Emily Atkinson

Dozens of residents in an Oxfordshire village ran out of water forcing Thames Water to dispatch water tankers and bottled water to the area as the country faces a growing spectre of drought and a looming heatwave.

While supply has returned to customers in Northend village on the Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire border, Thames Water said it was using tankers to help boost supplies and keep up water pressure so more homes don’t run out.

Thames Water said 68 customers were without water for a time and that pressure remains lower than normal due to issues with the Stokenchurch reservoir. It said it hand delivered bottled water to customers on its priority services register, those who have special requirements such as being medically reliant on water.

Our climate correspondent Saphora Smith reports:

Oxfordshire village runs out of water as lethal heatwave looms

Experts warn of ‘lethally hot’ conditions as second heatwave ‘could cause more deaths’

Wednesday 10 August 2022 10:36 , Emily Atkinson

Experts have warned that the second heatwave sweeping across the UK could cause more deaths despite bringing lower temperatures than those of July.

With no let up from the “lethally hot” weather, Hannah Cloke, Professor of Hydrology at the University of Reading, said that compared to last month’s 40C highs, this time round is likely to be “less intense”, but will “last longer” – which she added “could actually have a greater impact on people’s health.”

She continued: “This heatwave might not break any records for maximum temperatures, but it might actually cause more deaths.

“We know that the most dangerous heat conditions are caused when people, particularly those with underlying health conditions, have no respite from the heat for days and nights on end.

“This is why it is crucial that people have access to spaces to cool down in, even for an hour or two each day. Keeping a cool room in your house is one way to do this.”

Climate and energy leadership nowhere to be seen as heatwave returns

Wednesday 10 August 2022 10:11 , Emily Atkinson

The news is bursting with environmental breakdown, yet the government, the leadership candidates and Labour are almost silent, writes Harry Cockburn.

Climate and energy leadership nowhere to be seen as heatwave returns

Wednesday 10 August 2022 09:41 , Emily Atkinson

Images capture London’s parched parkland, dried out by recent dry, hot weather.

Hyde Park, 10 August

Primose Hill, 9 August

Wanstead Park, 8 August

What is a heatwave?

Wednesday 10 August 2022 09:18 , Emily Atkinson

Britons are facing scorching weather this week as temperatures soar once again.

The mercury is expected to hit 28C on Monday and remain high throughout the week, passing 30C on Thursday and continuing into the weekend, according to the Met Office.

While there is no denying the UK is experiencing another (very) hot spell, can it be officially classified as a heatwave?

My colleagues Chiara Giordano and Maryam Zakir-Hussain take a look at the evidence:

What is a heatwave?

Ian Blackford flags cost of heating crisis in Highlands amid heatwave warning

Wednesday 10 August 2022 08:59 , Emily Atkinson

SNP Commons leader Ian Blackford has warned of a “cost of heating crisis” in the Scottish Highlands while other parts of the UK battle swelteringly hot weather.

Posting on Twitter, he wrote: “It will of course only get worse. Whilst there might be a heatwave elsewhere the temperatures on Skye will not rise above 16C over the next ten days. Folk already have their heating on.”

Watch: Four-day amber warning for extreme temperatures issued as heatwave looms

Wednesday 10 August 2022 08:46 , Emily Atkinson

Simple water-saving changes to your home routine

Wednesday 10 August 2022 08:27 , Emily Atkinson

Water UK has published a number of handy tips for the home and garden to limit water usage and help take the strain off supplies.

Swathes of water companies have already signalled they will bring in a hosepipe ban to conserve water supply in the face of the hot, dry summer.

Here are seven ways you can help:

• Keep your shower time to just 4 minutes

• Replace your old shower head with a water efficient version

• Only run the dishwasher when it’s full

• Turn off the tap when brushing your teeth

• Wait for a full load before running your washing machine

• Use the eco setting on your dishwasher or washing machine

• Try to reuse water whenever you can

Oxfordshire village becomes 'first area in UK to run dry’

Wednesday 10 August 2022 08:10 , Emily Atkinson

A village in Oxfordshire has been named as the first area in the UK to have had its water supply run dry, leaving residents to rely on bottled and tanker water deliveries from Thames Water.

Northend is usually supplied by the Stokenchurch Reservoir, which ran dry as demand soared in the face of the hot, dry summer, reports The Telegraph.

Good morning

Wednesday 10 August 2022 07:54 , Emily Atkinson

Welcome to our live coverage on UK weather as temperatures are set to soar.

Tuesday brought with it a fresh wave of grass fires as water shortages continued to ramp up across the UK.

The UK Health Security Agency also extended its heat health warning for an extra day to Sunday evening, while the four-day Met Office extreme heat alert is expected to come into force on Thursday.

For now, here’s the Met Office outlook for today’s weather:

Tuesday 9 August 2022 20:02 , Katy Clifton

We are pausing our live updates for the evening.

How the heat is affecting the natural environment

Tuesday 9 August 2022 19:45 , Zoe Tidman

The UK has seen dry conditions which, combined with last month’s record-breaking heatwave, have depleted rivers, reservoirs and aquifers and dried up soils, hitting agriculture, water supplies and wildlife and raising the risk of wildfires.

Analysis from the UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology warns river flows are set to remain exceptionally low in central, southern and eastern England until October.

Groundwater levels in southern England and South Wales will be below normal and exceptionally low in some areas for the next three months, it said.

Several inches of extra rain, in addition to what would normally be expected, is needed to overcome the dry conditions in parts of southern England.

PA

Temperatures to build throughout week, Met Office says

Tuesday 9 August 2022 19:07 , Zoe Tidman

The Met Office has recapped its forecast for the week, saying temperatures are expected to increase and peak at the weekend.

See here:

How to keep cool in the day

Tuesday 9 August 2022 18:39 , Zoe Tidman

And here are some more tips on how to keep cool during the day:

How to keep your house cool in a heatwave

How to keep cool at night in a heatwave

Tuesday 9 August 2022 18:00 , Zoe Tidman

Heatwaves can often lead to very warm nights that many may find very uncomfortable, especially without a fan or air-conditioning.

My colleagues Sarah Young and Kate Ng have taken a look about how to keep cool at night as temperatures swelter:

How to sleep during a heatwave, according to experts

Why is the UK underprepared for extreme heat?

Tuesday 9 August 2022 17:30 , Zoe Tidman

Compared with other countries, the UK is underprepared for these heatwaves, experts say.

Jane Dalton takes a look at why and what can be done:

Why the UK is so unprepared for extreme heat?

Advice on how to keep cool - from councils

Tuesday 9 August 2022 17:00 , Zoe Tidman

Councils are issuing advice on how to keep cool in the hot weather. See more here:

What defines a heatwave?

Tuesday 9 August 2022 16:30 , Zoe Tidman

With the UK experiencing another hot spell, here is a quick reminder about what sets a heatwave apart from hot weather:

What is a heatwave?

Met Office forecast for tonight

Tuesday 9 August 2022 16:04 , Zoe Tidman

Here is the latest from the Met Office on what we can expect for tonight:

Fire service ‘really busy’ fighting wildfires

Tuesday 9 August 2022 15:46 , Zoe Tidman

Suffolk Fire Service says it has been really busy fighting wildfires in rural areas, as have other fire services across the country.

It comes as the scorching temperatures have triggered new fire warnings this week:

What does ‘heatwave’ actually mean?

Tuesday 9 August 2022 15:15 , Zoe Tidman

Here is a handy reminder of what constitutes as a heatwave, as the UK prepares for another one:

Thames Water hosepipe ban statement

Tuesday 9 August 2022 15:00 , Zoe Tidman

Here is what a Thames Water spokesperson said about the hosepipe ban:

“Given the long-term forecast of dry weather and another forecast of very hot temperatures coming this week, we are planning to announce a temporary use ban in the coming weeks.”

For more, read Saphora Smith’s article:

Thames Water to impose hosepipe ban in ‘coming weeks’

Images of hot weather and parched parks

Tuesday 9 August 2022 14:41 , Zoe Tidman

Here are some more images of the hot weather and dry parks today:

Drivers urged to check tyres on ‘searing Saturday'

Tuesday 9 August 2022 14:22 , Zoe Tidman

Drivers are being urged to check their tyres before beginning journeys on “searing Saturday”.

The AA is concerned the start of a weekend when millions of people will be making long trips to the seaside, football matches, music festivals and holidays will coincide with extreme heat.

Temperatures are expected to peak at 35C, increasing the risk of blowouts for tyres that are inflated to the wrong pressure or already damaged.

PA

Sun-bleached grass at London park

Tuesday 9 August 2022 14:03 , Zoe Tidman

Londoners taking a stroll in Richmond Park today are facing a different sight to the usual green grass.

Like other fields across the country, its meadows are looking parched after months of sparse rainfall:

BREAKING: Thames Water to impose hosepipe ban in ‘coming weeks’

Tuesday 9 August 2022 13:56 , Zoe Tidman

Thames Water to impose hosepipe ban in ‘coming weeks’

UKHSA extends heat health warning

Tuesday 9 August 2022 13:44 , Zoe Tidman

The heat health warning has also been extended by another day.

“With high temperatures now forecast to last throughout the weekend, UKHSA has extended the current heat health alert,” the government agency says.

“The alert is now in place from midday Tuesday 9 August until 11pm Sunday 14 August.”

UKHSA heat health warning now in place

Tuesday 9 August 2022 13:23 , Zoe Tidman

A heat-health alert urging the elderly and vulnerable to prepare for soaring temperatures has come into effect for all regions of England as large parts of the UK brace for another heatwave.

Saphora Smith, our climate correspondent, reports:

Heat health alert in place in England as country braces for another heatwave

Advice for pet owners

Tuesday 9 August 2022 12:56 , Zoe Tidman

The British Veterinary Association has also told pet owners to take extra care to protect their animals in the extreme heat.

“Animals need extra care during the summer to keep them safe from heat-related illnesses such as heatstroke, heart conditions, breathing difficulties and sunburn, many of which can sadly be fatal,” Dr Justine Shotton, its president, said.

“Make sure animals have access to fresh drinking water, good ventilation and shade from direct sunlight at all times.”

She said dogs especially can “overheat easily”, so owners should avoid walking them in the hottest part of the day or leaving them inside hot cars or conservatories.

“Keep an eye out for early signs of heatstroke, such as heavy panting, drooling, restlessness, and lack of coordination and contact a vet immediately in case you have any concerns,” Dr Shotton added.

National Highways advice in extreme heat

Tuesday 9 August 2022 12:38 , Zoe Tidman

National Highways has issued advice to drivers in light of the extreme heat warning.

“It is always very important to plan ahead for your journey and this advice remains the same during periods of hot weather,” Jeremy Phillips, its head of road safety, said.

“When hot weather is forecast, please remember to take plenty of drinking water with you – enough for you and your passengers.”

He added: “We also advise everyone should check their vehicles, such as tyres, coolant and oil levels, before heading out.”

‘Lots of sunshine’ in afternoon

Tuesday 9 August 2022 12:19 , Zoe Tidman

This afternoon looks set to be a hot one for much of the country, according to the Met Office’s latest forecast:

What is the situation in Europe?

Tuesday 9 August 2022 12:00 , Zoe Tidman

It is not just the UK experiencing sweltering temperatures.

Spain experienced its hottest month on record in July, according to the World Meteorological Organisation:

Harry Cockburn, our environment correspondent, has also reported on heatwaves and droughts sweeping through Europe:

Heatwave: Drought and searing temperatures expected in Europe and UK

Temperatures to rise ‘day-on-day’ this week, Met Office says

Tuesday 9 August 2022 11:39 , Zoe Tidman

Dan Rudman from the Met Office has spoken about the new heat warning.

The deputy chief meteorologist says:

“Thanks to persistent high pressure over the UK, temperatures will be rising day-on-day through this week and an extreme heat warning has been issued.

“Temperatures are expected to peak at 35C on Friday and Saturday, or even an isolated 36C on Saturday. Elsewhere will see temperatures widely into the high 20s and low 30s C.

“Coupled with the high daytime temperatures there will be some warm nights, with temperatures expected not to drop below the low 20s C for some areas in the south.”

What does the extreme heat warning mean?

Tuesday 9 August 2022 11:14 , Zoe Tidman

Here are some of the Met Office’s warnings over the extreme heat forecast:

• Adverse health effects are likely to be experienced by those vulnerable to extreme heat

• The wider population are likely to experience some adverse health effects including sunburn, heat exhaustion, and other heat related illnesses

• More people are likely to visit coastal areas, lakes, rivers and other beauty spots leading to an increased risk of water safety and fire-related incidents

• Delays to travel are possible, with potential for welfare issues for those who experience prolonged delays

When and where is the extreme heat warning for?

Tuesday 9 August 2022 10:55 , Zoe Tidman

Here is more detail from the Met Office on its new amber warning for extreme heat:

‘Please be sensible. Please help us,’ fire service says

Tuesday 9 August 2022 10:36 , Zoe Tidman

Another fire service has urged the public to “be sensible” to help it cope during the next heatwave:

Hosepipe bans in the hot and dry weather

Tuesday 9 August 2022 10:20 , Zoe Tidman

As well as posing a fire risk, the hot and dry conditions are also impacting water supply.

Several water companies have announced hosepipe bans to cope with increased demand and stretched resources.

Saphora Smith, our climate correspondent, has more on them:

What is a hosepipe ban and why are they imposed?

BREAKING: Met Office issues four day warning for extreme heat

Tuesday 9 August 2022 10:16 , Zoe Tidman

Met Office issues four-day warning for extreme heat

Golf course dries out in Kent

Tuesday 9 August 2022 10:03 , Zoe Tidman

Here is an example of how grassy areas have been parched in the prolonged dry weather.

See how this has affected a golf course in Kent:

London Fire Brigade issues advice for ‘another hot, dry day’

Tuesday 9 August 2022 09:45 , Zoe Tidman

Fire services are also putting out similar advice, such as London Fire Brigade:

Councils issue advice to reduce fire risk

Tuesday 9 August 2022 09:27 , Zoe Tidman

Councils are putting out warnings to try and reduce the fire risk in the hot weather:

BREAKING: Most severe fire warning issued by Met Office as temperatures to soar in heatwave

Tuesday 9 August 2022 09:00 , Zoe Tidman

Most severe fire warning issued by Met Office as temperatures to soar in heatwave

Parched landscapes across UK

Tuesday 9 August 2022 08:55 , Zoe Tidman

The latest heatwave coming after months of low rain, which have left the countryside and urban parks and gardens tinder-dry.

Here are some images of parched landscapes:

UK given warning over fire risk

Tuesday 9 August 2022 08:36 , Zoe Tidman

On that note, households are being urged not to light fires and retailers to ban sales of disposable barbecues as England faces another heatwave in already tinder-dry conditions.

Full story here:

Fire warning as new heatwave builds in tinder-dry conditions

‘Exceptional’ fire risk towards end of week

Tuesday 9 August 2022 08:28 , Zoe Tidman

The Met Office has a fire severity index that looks at how severe a fire could become if one were to start.

This is very high for most of England and Wales throughout the week and will reach “exceptional” - the top level - for some by the weekend.

You can see for yourself here:

UK Fire Severity Index - Met Office

What is the heat health alert?

Tuesday 9 August 2022 08:26 , Zoe Tidman

The heat health alert system aims to help the health service manage through periods of high temperatures by acting as an early warning system, where the weather may affect the public’s health.

The UKHSA has issued advice on how people can stay cool and safe in the heat, as well as how to look after particularly vulnerable groups.

This can be found on its website:

Heat-health alert issued by the UK Health Security Agency

And its social media:

What is the forecast for this week?

Tuesday 9 August 2022 08:08 , Zoe Tidman

The UK is set to face another heatwave this week which is expected to last longer than the one in July.

Temperatures are due to soar, with forecasters saying they could enter the mid-30Cs by Friday.

Full story on this week’s sweltering forecast here:

UK faces longer heatwave than July’s 40C record as millions under hosepipe ban

‘Sunshine from the word go'

Tuesday 9 August 2022 07:50 , Zoe Tidman

Here is what the Met Office forecasts for this morning:

Heat health alert set to kick in today

Tuesday 9 August 2022 07:30 , Zoe Tidman

The UK Health Security Agency has issued a heat health alert for all regions of England as the country braces itself for another heatwave, Joe Middleton reports.

This is coming into force from midday today.

UK weather: Heat health alert issued ahead of heatwave

Tuesday 9 August 2022 07:27 , Zoe Tidman

Good morning and welcome to our live coverage on UK weather as temperatures are set to soar.