Many parts of Scotland including southern parts of the country as well as large parts of the central belt, Fife, Edinburgh and as far up as Dundee are set to be placed under an amber warning for extreme heat. Temperatures are expected to clock-in just shy of 30C, with much of southern Scotland sitting in the high-20's.
The warning has been issued as the heat presents a serious threat to health. Officials have urged people to take care of themselves during the amber warning, which is set to last from 12.00am on Monday, 18 July, until 11.59pm on Tuesday, 19 July.
On top of this, it is important to keep an eye out for those around you and to be able to identify the adverse health effects of excessive heat. From dehydration to heatstroke it is important to look out for those around you, particularly if they fall under a vulnerable group.
Justice Secretary Keith Brown, lead Minister for resilience, said: “We are aware of the weather warnings currently in place and are receiving regular updates from partners including the Met Office and emergency services.
"Our resilience arrangements have been activated and stand ready at all times to coordinate a response to severe weather issues where required. We will continue to closely monitor developments."
Here are key facts that you may want to know ahead of the upcoming amber warning for extreme heat.
Guidance for staying safe during the warm weather
During the hot weather, there are a number of actions that you can take in order to protect yourself and those around you. Those in the areas impacted by the amber warning should make sure that they are not unintentionally putting themselves and others in harm's way.
The guidance - issued by the Scottish Government - says:
- stay indoors or shaded when the sun is at its hottest (11am - 3pm)
- drink plenty of cool fluids throughout the day
- eat cold foods with high water content such as salads and fruit
- take a cool shower, bath or body wash
- sprinkle water over skin or clothing, or keep a damp cloth on the back of your neck
- avoid alcohol – which can leave you dehydrated
- avoid extreme physical exertion
Additionally, officials have warned that during hotter days water safety incidents tend to rise. If you are planning to go to the beach it would be advisable to look at Water Safety Scotland's guidance.
On this matter, Justice Secretary Keith Brown said: “Water safety incidents and drownings increase in hot weather and people should be aware of the dangers and use supervised beaches and pools when possible – follow the Water Safety Code and in an emergency call 999.”
Signs of heat exhaustion
Among other heat-related illnesses there is a good chance that heat exhaustion cases could rise during the period placed under an amber warning. It is usually not a serious condition if treated quickly, but can develop if left unchecked and turn into heatstroke, which can be life threatening.
Symptoms for both conditions include:
- headache
- feeling confused or dizzy
- rapid pulse or fast breathing
- body cramps (particularly in the arms, legs and stomach)
- feeling sick or vomiting
- feeling dehydrated or thirsty
- pale, sweaty or clammy skin
- a high temperature of 38C or above
If you see someone who you think is suffering from these symptoms it is important to shade them from the sun and keep them hydrated so that they can cool down.
Vulnerable groups
Babies, young children, older people and people who have underlying conditions may be vulnerable to the effects of adverse heat. It is important to keep an eye on these groups, ensuring that they remain cool and safe while the amber alert is in place.
Justice Secretary Keith Brown said: “I would also urge people to look out for vulnerable family, friends and neighbours, as older people, those with underlying conditions and those living alone may struggle to keep cool and hydrated."
These groups should not be left alone in stationary cars or other closed spaces. Additionally you should not transport animals at all during extreme temperatures and should remain mindful about keeping them cool.
How are you preparing for the extreme heat? Let us know in the comments.
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