RED weather warning for extreme heat issued as temperatures set to soar to 40C in Northampton

Northampton is currently covered by an amber weather warning, which is in place until 11.59pm on Tuesday June 23. Another amber warning had also been issued for later in the week, however, today (Monday June 22) the warning for some areas has been upgraded to the most serious.

The red warning is in place from 9am on Wednesday June 24 until 9pm on Thursday June 25 and covers a smaller section of the country, including Northampton, Daventry and the south of the county, as well as London, some of the midlands and some of the south west of the country.

According to the Met Office forecast, Monday will see highs of 30C, before temperatures soar to 36C on Tuesday, dropping only to the early 20s overnight. Wednesday will see highs of 38C with the temperature expected to still be 27C at 10pm. Thursday will see highs of 40C, again with a hot night as 10pm is expected to still be 28C. Friday will see a return to highs of 29C.

Ahead of the warm spell, NN Weather said that until 2022 the highest Northamptonshire recorded temperature was 36.7°C in Raunds set on August 9, 1911.

He added: “This record stood for 111 years before it was smashed by 3.5°C on July 19, 2022 when Pitsford recorded 40.2°C.”

The local forecaster said Thursday looks like it will break the Raunds record for the second time in four years.

As part of the red warning, the Met Office is warning of “population-wide adverse health effects, not limited to those most vulnerable to extreme heat, leading to potential serious illness or danger to life”.

Weather experts say substantial changes in working practices and daily routines are likely to be required and that failure of heat-sensitive systems and equipment is likely, with the probable loss of power and other essential services, such as water, electricity, gas or mobile phone services.

They also warn of increased risk of water safety incidents as more people are likely to visit coastal areas, lakes and rivers.

Delays on roads and road closures are possible, along with delays and cancellations to rail and air travel, with potential for significant welfare issues for those who experience even moderate delays.

Met Office tips to stay healthy in extreme heat

• Drink plenty of fluids
• Keep out of the sun and avoid any exercise between 11am and 3pm when the sun is strongest
• Close curtains in rooms that face the sun
• If you are going out take water with you, stay in the shade, wear sunscreen and a wide brimmed hat
• Check road conditions if driving, or bus and train timetables, amending your travel plans if necessary to avoid delays
• If using public transport, carry water with you, take a small hand-held battery powered fan, if you feel unwell get off at next stop for some fresh air, dress in light fabrics in light colours to help stay cooler, keep an eye on fellow passengers for signs they may be struggling.
• If you are worried about your health, or that of somebody you know, ring NHS 111.