Heatwave: What to expect in the New Forest and Christchurch – and whether you can leave work if it's too hot

IT'S more than a little warm out there, with temperatures in the Forest set to hit 33C today (Monday) and tomorrow.

However, the local numbers aren't a patch on what's happening in other areas of the UK, as blasts of up to 40C are predicted.

This has led to the first Met Office red warning for "exceptional" heat and the first time such temperatures have been predicted. The current record high temperature in the UK is 38.7°C, reached at Cambridge Botanic Garden on 25th July 2019.

The current warning level locally is amber.

The national weather agency has forecast highs for the New Forest of between 31C and 33C, with a couple of degrees lower on Tuesday. Christchurch is a touch more comfortable with 27C today and 26C tomorrow.

From Wednesday, the numbers drop off significantly, with low to mid-20s forecast.

Meanwhile Ringwood employment lawyers Ellis Jones Solicitors has warned that there is no maximum temperature at which staff can demand to go home because it is too hot.

Kate Brooks, a partner and head of employment at Ellis Jones, said it's a popular myth that work can stop once a certain number is hit.

“How hot is too hot? That is the question as people begin to ask at what temperature it is too warm to work," she added.

“However, it is a myth that such a figure exists and ultimately it is up to the employer to decide whether the workplace temperature is suitable for workers.”

According to Workplace Regulations of 1992, employers have a responsibility to ensure that conditions are "reasonable" for workers.

Employers are required to keep the "temperature at a comfortable level" and for providing "clean and fresh air".

Kate said: “Responsible employers will understand their duty of care and take measures to mitigate high temperatures both for the benefit of their people and business continuity.

“Of course, there are nuances. For example, some employers will have higher heat thresholds or may have underlying health conditions while some roles may be affected more than others.

“Employers will also need to check on staff working from home and may need to provide fans, blinds or take other measures to support them.

“Ultimately, much comes down to common sense and employers following health and safety at work law but also listening to staff when they raise concerns and taking any reasonable steps.”

Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service is warning residents not to have bonfires at home during high-risk conditions.

Group manager Graham Kewley said: “The exceptional weather that is forecast for the coming days means that we all need to take care when out and about.

"We want people to enjoy the sunshine, but we do urge everyone to think about what they’re doing and perhaps amend their plans to stay as safe as possible.”

Hampshire County Council is also warning the conditions could be fatal to those with underlying, long-term health issues.

HCC health boss Cllr Liz Fairhurst, said: “Severe heat is dangerous to everyone, but people with respiratory and cardiovascular diseases are particularly vulnerable. When temperatures remain abnormally high for a prolonged period of more than a couple of days, it can prove fatal for some. That is why it is really important that we all heed the government advice to help keep ourselves well and do all that we can to take care of young children, the elderly and those with a long-standing medical condition – even checking in on family who don’t live with you, friends and neighbours, if you can.”

National Highways has urged drivers to be careful of engines overheating in the baking temperatures.

Motorists who find their cars starting to overheat should "find somewhere sensible to stop and allow the vehicle time to cool down".

Mel Clarke, customer service director for operations at National Highways, added: "It is crucial for everyone to plan their journey in advance, so they are better prepared for the hot weather

"Simple steps such as taking bottles of drinking water with you are really important to help keep you and your passengers hydrated, as well as checking your vehicle before you travel, including tyres, oil and coolant levels."