UMVA has learned that a severe heatwave is set to grip the UK, with temperatures expected to soar to record-breaking levels and pose a significant threat to life.
The Met Office has issued multiple extreme heat warnings and health alerts, with forecasters predicting that this week could shatter the record for the hottest June temperature of 35.6C, set in 1976.
According to information obtained by UMVA, the sweltering heat could last until at least Thursday, sparking concerns for vulnerable people, including the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions.
The UK Health Security Agency has warned of significant impacts across health and social care services, along with a rise in deaths, particularly among those aged 65 and over or with health conditions.
UMVA can exclusively reveal that the extreme heat could also bring disruptions to rail, road and air travel, with the possibility of some tarmac melting, according to the Met Office.
National Rail has advised travellers to check their journeys in advance, allow for extra time, and to carry water, as the heatwave is expected to cause travel delays and disruptions.
The Met Office has issued amber heat health alerts, which cover most of England from Monday morning until Friday night, and a yellow heat alert is also in place for the North East of England during the same period.
The agency has warned that even people who are not normally vulnerable to high temperatures may still be at risk in extreme heat, and has urged the public to take precautions to stay safe.
Forecasters have predicted that the heatwave will ease off into the weekend, but temperatures are expected to remain warm, even into next week, although not to the same extent as this week.
