Temperatures in Salford are set to reach highs of 28C at the start of next week as forecasters said a heatwave more severe than the one in May could be on the way.
Salford reached temperatures as high as 33C on Tuesday 25 May as a health warning was issued by the Health Security Agency (UKHSA), alerting residents to a risk to vulnerable groups.
Although the government health agency has not yet issued a similar warning for the North West, people have been urged to take precautions as temperatures are set to climb again this weekend.
Salfordians travelling down south should be conscious of the sweltering weather, with orange warnings covering London, the south-east, south-west and east of England, and are in place from Thursday afternoon until 8pm on Tuesday June 23.
According to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) website, the warning means an “increased demand” is likely to be placed on health and social care services, and could result in a rise in deaths.
Those aged 65 and over, as well as those with health conditions, will be most vulnerable, it said, though there may also be impacts on younger age groups.
Less severe yellow health alerts cover the East and West Midlands, warning of minor impacts on services.
It comes as forecasters have predicted the incoming heatwave could feel even hotter than that experienced in May, with temperatures likely to push into the mid-30s.
As conditions turn “humid and muggy”, the south of England could see highs of 32C on Sunday – and even higher temperatures on Monday, the Met Office said.
Met Office meteorologist Honor Criswick said: “It’s a bit different to the last heatwave, because last time the humidity wasn’t as high, whereas this time the humidity is quite a bit higher.
“It’s just going to make it feel that bit muggier and that bit more humid during the day and overnight as well, so it just means it’s going to be more uncomfortable, the heat itself.”
The AA has advised drivers to check tyres, oil and coolant levels, pack water for passengers and pets, and avoid driving during the hottest part of the day – especially if using an older car.
A spokesperson added: “A parked car can become dangerously hot in minutes, so never leave children, older or vulnerable passengers, or pets inside a vehicle, even briefly.
“If you do break down, stop somewhere safe, if possible, keep well away from moving traffic and wait in the shade, in a safe place, while help is on the way.”
Temperatures in Salford are predicted to reach 25C on Sunday and continue climbing to 28C on Monday.
As residents enjoy the sunshine in the city’s leafy parks and pile into pub beer gardens for refreshments, they are being reminded to stay safe in the high heat.
