The Met Office has sounded the alarm for Cornwall, issuing an amber alert as a sweltering heatwave bears down on the region. Residents are bracing themselves for potentially record-breaking temperatures in areas such as St Austell, Truro, and Penzance, where highs of 30°C or more are expected over the next few days.
The Met Office defines an amber alert as a 'heatwave when the temperature is expected to be in the range of 25-30°C for at least two consecutive days and nights in a 24-hour period'. With temperatures predicted to remain high throughout, residents are being urged to take precautions, including staying cool, hydrated, and checking on vulnerable neighbours.
While Cornwall is likely to feel the full force of the heatwave, other parts of England – including the Midlands, South East, and South West – can also expect scorching temperatures. In Scotland, a yellow warning has been issued for heat, with highs reaching 28°C in some areas. Wales and Northern Ireland are also set for a prolonged period of warmth, although to a lesser extent.
The Met Office has released its forecast for the next few days:
England:
Wednesday: 28°C (82°F), wind speed 15-20 mph
Thursday: 30°C (86°F), wind speed 20-25 mph
Friday: 32°C (90°F), wind speed 25-30 mph
Scotland:
Wednesday: 28°C (82°F), wind speed 15-20 mph
Thursday: 29°C (84°F), wind speed 20-25 mph
Friday: 31°C (88°F), wind speed 25-30 mph
Wales:
Wednesday: 25°C (77°F), wind speed 10-15 mph
Thursday: 26°C (79°F), wind speed 15-20 mph
Friday: 28°C (82°F), wind speed 20-25 mph
Northern Ireland:
Wednesday: 24°C (75°F), wind speed 10-15 mph
Thursday: 25°C (77°F), wind speed 15-20 mph
Friday: 27°C (81°F), wind speed 20-25 mph