Andy Munns
The MET office has issued new warnings for Wiltshire and Hampshire as the area will see extreme temperatures in the coming days.
The Amber extreme warning will be in place all day Thursday (11th August), Friday (12th), Saturday (13th) and Sunday (14th).
Temperatures are currently expected to reach around 35 degrees in and around Salisbury on both Friday and Saturday. Thursday and Sunday are expected to peak at 33.
These temperatures are lower than the record figures reached last month. They are, however, likely to cause issues for vulnerable and unprepared people.
There maybe issues with travel and transport too as road, rail and air travel can be affected by high temperatures. There is potential for welfare issues for those who experience prolonged delays
Local health leaders are also calling for caution. They are encouraging people to help older relatives, friends and neighbours to drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated and reduce the risk of experiencing heat-related illness.
Everyone is at risk of dehydration in hot temperatures, but babies, children and older people are particularly vulnerable. It is important to know and look out for the signs of dehydration such as increased thirst, a dry mouth, dark urine, and urinating infrequently or small amounts.
Hydration is key during hot weather and people should aim to drink 6-8 glasses/cups of water, lower fat milks, tea and coffee throughout the day. Fruit juice, smoothies and soft drinks do count towards fluid intake but can be high in sugar so limiting fruit juice or smoothies to a combined total of 150ml a day and swapping sugary drinks for diet, or sugar-free or no added sugar is a good idea.
Gill May, Chief Nurse Officer for Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire Integrated Care Board, said:
“Good hydration is one of the most important aspects of our diet; drinking fluids regularly throughout the day can help people stay well and ensures that our bodily functions are able to take place as normal.
“Hydration is especially important for older people and young children. When fluid levels drop even slightly, we can begin to feel poorly with headaches, dizziness, lethargy, and poor concentration. Dehydration can also be associated with urinary tract infections.
“Good hydration is critical to helping us all staying well and feeling our best”.
For the latest local news and sport in Salisbury like Love Salisbury on Facebook or tune into Salisbury Radio on DAB or online.
