New Forest and Christchurch in Met Office amber extreme heat warning

AN amber weather warning for extreme heat this week has been issued for an area including the New Forest and Christchurch.

The Met Office alert forecast a hot spell across much of England lasting from Thursday until Sunday with likely "adverse health effects".

It added: "The wider population are likely to experience some adverse health effects including sunburn or heat exhaustion (dehydration, nausea, fatigue) and other heat-related illnesses.

"Some delays to road, rail and air travel are possible, with potential for welfare issues for those who experience prolonged delays."

It also warned of higher risk from water and fire-related incidents as more people visit coastal areas, rivers and beauty spots.

The Met Office said: "Temperatures will increase across much of the UK over the coming week. Temperatures will be highest across parts of England and Wales with these peaking on Friday and Saturday.

"In addition to high daytime maxima, temperatures overnight will remain very warm, especially in larger urban areas."

In the New Forest the lack of rain has already prompted a hosepipe ban last Friday for Southern Water customers on the Waterside and Totton, and in a few northern and central parts of the district.

Hampshire County Council urged people to keep out of the sun during the hottest part of the day and keep an eye out for vulnerable people.

Cllr Liz Fairhurst, HCC cabinet member for adult services and public health, said: “It’s getting hotter again this week with temperatures predicted to reach the mid-thirties over several days in some parts of the county.

"These periods of extremely high heat that we are experiencing this summer will have most impact on the more vulnerable people in our communities.

"It is important we look after ourselves as well as loved ones and anyone who might be at risk, such as the elderly, those with underlying health conditions or the very young.”