The Met Office has issued a heatwave warning across the UK, with temperatures expected to reach 40C in parts of England and Wales. The warning, which is in place until 22:00 BST on 8 July, covers the entire country, with the highest temperatures predicted in the south and south-east of England.
In Scotland, temperatures are expected to reach the mid-30s, while in Northern Ireland, temperatures will reach the mid-20s. The Met Office advises people to stay indoors during the hottest part of the day, between 11am and 3pm, and to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
The organisation has also warned Brits not to use electric fans as a substitute for proper cooling, as they can actually make people feel hotter. 'If you're using an electric fan, it's making you feel cooler, but it's not actually cooling the air down,' said a Met Office spokesperson. 'In fact, it can make you feel hotter because it's making you sweat more.'
People are advised to use cooling packs or stay in air-conditioned rooms if possible. The Met Office also recommends checking on vulnerable neighbours and friends, especially the elderly and young children, who may be more susceptible to the heat.