Met Office upgrades heatwave warning for Sussex

A “Level 3” heat-health watch warning has been issued across the South East, requiring healthcare services to help high-risk groups.

The alert means that temperatures could soar as high as 31 deg C during the day and 16 deg C at night.

And while the recent warm weather has been welcomed by sunbathers, sport watchers and barbecue fans, the heat can be dangerous for the very young, elderly and seriously ill.

The Met Office is now urging those in the high-risk group to do their best to stay cool as the mercury continues to rise.

High-risk groups include:

l babies and young children,

l older people, especially women and those over 75,

l people with a serious chronic condition, especially heart, kidney or breathing problems, or diabetes,

l mobility problems,

l serious mental health problems,

l those on certain medications, including those that affect sweating and temperature control,

l people who misuse alcohol or drugs,

l people who are physically active, for example labourers or those doing sports.

The Met Office advice residents to also keep an eye on isolated, elderly, ill or very young people and make sure they are able to keep cool, ensure that babies, children or elderly people are not left alone in stationary cars, and check on elderly or sick neighbours, family or friends every day during a heatwave.