A rare red weather warning for extreme heat will come into force across parts of Essex today, with temperatures forecast to soar to as high as 39C.
The Met Office alert, which begins at 9am on Wednesday, will remain in place until 9pm on Thursday, covering areas including Grays, South Ockendon, Purfleet, Warley, Harlow and Chipping Ongar.
Forecasters have warned the exceptional spell of hot and humid weather is likely to have widespread impacts across the population, not just those considered vulnerable.
A Met Office spokesman said: “An exceptional spell of hot and humid weather is expected across this region, with impacts to the general population highly likely.”
The warning highlights the potential for adverse health effects across all age groups, alongside “substantial changes in working practices and daily routines”.
There is also a risk of disruption to infrastructure, with heat-sensitive systems and equipment - including power supplies - potentially affected.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has also issued a red heat health alert covering the whole of Essex, in place from 1am on Wednesday until 11pm on Thursday.
This is the highest level of alert and indicates severe impacts are expected across health and social care services, including an increased risk to life.
Meteorologists say the heatwave will be accompanied by high humidity and possible “tropical nights”, where temperatures remain above 20C overnight, making conditions feel especially uncomfortable.
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Met Office meteorologist Simon Partridge said: “It’s a very unusual, very rare spell of very hot weather, so it’s one of those where people should take care, try to keep their houses as cool as possible, and check in on those that are vulnerable.
“But everybody will feel this because it will be very hot and the overnight temperatures, in particular, will mean people won’t be getting as much sleep as they would usually.”
Travel disruption is also possible, with road and rail networks at risk of delays, cancellations and welfare issues for passengers.
Residents are being urged to stay hydrated, avoid the sun during peak hours between 11am and 3pm, and keep homes cool by closing curtains in sun-facing rooms.
Those heading outdoors should carry water, wear sunscreen and a hat, and stay in the shade where possible.
People are also advised to take care around water and enter slowly to avoid cold-water shock.
The public is being encouraged to check on vulnerable individuals, including older people, those with underlying health conditions and anyone living alone.
If temperatures reach the forecast highs, the UK could surpass its current June temperature record of 35C, set in the 1970s.
