Temperatures are expected to peak on Monday and Tuesday, with the national heat record of 38.7C still set to be broken early next week, though the most extreme temperatures seem less likely, the Met Office said. The unprecedented heat has led to a warning urging the British to conserve water.
Annie Shuttleworth, a meteorologist with the Met Office, said: “Temperatures in the area being warned are likely to peak on Monday and Tuesday, when temperatures will reach the mid-thirties in a few areas, especially in more southern parts of the country.” that warning area.. but on a large scale it will be in the low thirties.
“A few spots closer to the southeast could see the high thirties. There is still some uncertainty – the possibility of 40C is not ruled out at this stage, but it is a more unlikely scenario.”
South East Water has been given “red” status for water demand from South East Water.
The company said: “We need our customers in Kent to use water only for essential uses so that we can replenish supplies in your area to meet local demand.”
It said it saw “record” usage levels as customers filled “giant paddling pools” — which can hold thousands of gallons of water — to cool off in the heat.
South East Water supplies 2.2 million people in Hampshire, Berkshire, Surrey, Sussex and Kent.
Water shortages can only arise if the summer stays dry, or it could be a problem for next year if we also have a dry winter, he explained.
Meanwhile, a power outage on the Isle of Sheppey left some people with low pressure or no water supply on Tuesday morning.
A Cabinet Office spokesperson said: “We are working across government to assess and mitigate the impact of the heat wave.
“The UK Health Security Agency has issued health warnings across most of the country, including specific guidelines for schools and hospitals.
“As we expect consistently high temperatures over the next week, we are urging everyone to take precautions to ensure they stay cool.”