There’s a heatwave on the way and the Met Office is warning people in Southampton to check in on “vulnerable family, friends and neighbours”.

While most people enjoy a spell of sunny weather, too much heat can be dangerous and with temperatures expected to skyrocket over the coming days, a Level Three Heat Health Alert has been issued for the Southwest of England.

According to the UK’s national weather service: “Heatwave criteria will be met in some areas in southern and central England and Wales.

“The highest temperatures could reach 33°C on Tuesday, although temperatures will also be widely above average this weekend and through next week.”

What is a Level Three Heat Health Alert?

A Level Three Heat Health Alert highlights the potential health impacts of this type of weather. 

Met Office Deputy Chief Meteorologist, David Oliver, said: “The warm weather over much of England and Wales could last for much of next week.

“In the short term, many can expect temperatures in the mid to high 20s Celsius over the weekend, and then in the low 30s Celsius during the start of next week. Much of next week will remain warm for the time of year as well as dry and sunny for many areas.”

The alert covers from 9am on Monday (July 11) to 9am the following Friday (July 15)

After a warm day for many yesterday, temperatures are expected rise through the weekend, becoming widely hot, and locally very hot, from Monday next week.

The hottest weather is expected in southeastern and eastern areas, where temperatures are expected to reach the low 30s.

Although still feeling warm, there may be a dip in temperatures on Thursday and early Friday, before returning to hot or very hot temperatures for next weekend and into the following week.

Dr Agostinho Sousa, head of extreme events and health protection at UKHSA, said: “We want everyone to enjoy the hot weather when it arrives, but also to check in on their vulnerable family, friends and neighbours to make sure they are prepared for the warm conditions ahead.

“High temperatures are predicted for a prolonged period, so make sure to follow our simple health advice to beat the heat, such as covering windows exposed to direct sunlight and making sure that fridges, freezers and fans are working properly.”

Staying safe at the coast during heatwave

Daily Echo: An RNLI lifeboat during an exercise at sea. Picture: RNLI/PA WireAn RNLI lifeboat during an exercise at sea. Picture: RNLI/PA Wire

A heatwave is likely to prompt many to head to the beach, but it is important to remember safety advice if you do.

Sam Hughes, national water safety partner at the RNLI, said: “It is great to hear that the sun is on its way but we want to remind everyone to stay safe at the coast.

"If you are planning on going to the beach we would encourage you to visit a lifeguarded beach and swim between the red and yellow flags.

"If you get into trouble in the water, Float to Live: lean back, use your arms and legs to stay afloat. Control your breathing, then call for help or swim to safety.

"In a coastal emergency, call 999 or 112 for the Coastguard."