Amber weather warning issued for Dorset with extreme heat

The Met Office issued the warning today, with temperatures expected to reach highs of 27C in Bournemouth and 26C in Weymouth.  

Parts of North Dorset are to reach temperatures in the low 30s by the end of the week. 

The warning will come into effect at 12am on Thursday and end at 11.59pm on Sunday.

Image by The Met Office

Read more: Heatwave: amber heat-health alert issued for BCP and Dorset

A spokesperson for the Met Office said: “Adverse health effects are likely to be experienced by those vulnerable to extreme heat.  

“The wider population are likely to experience some adverse health effects including sunburn or heat exhaustion (dehydration, nausea, fatigue) and other heat related illnesses.” 

The Met Office also predicts changes in work practices are likely to be required, whilst heat-sensitive systems and equipment may fail due to the higher temperatures. 

The spokesperson added: “More people are likely to visit coastal areas, lakes, rivers and other beauty spots leading to an increased risk of water safety and fire-related incidents. 

Weymouth beach

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

“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.  

Bournemouth Pier

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

It is predicted thousands are to head to Dorset’s beaches to enjoy the warm and sunny weather.  

Weather forcaster Bournemouth and Poole Weather said: "It’s a beautiful start and again pretty much clear blue skies all the way today.

"Sea breezes later this afternoon but temps still up to a warm 27 or 28C, little change for the next 5days apart from temps pushing into the low 30s."

It’s a beautiful start and again pretty much clear blue skies all the way today. Sea breezes later this afternoon but temps still up to a warm 27 or 28C, little change for the next 5days apart from temps pushing into the low 30s. @Bournemouthecho @DorsetSnow @portlandukwx

— Bournemouth & Poole Weather (@BournemouthWea1) August 9, 2022

It comes just weeks after Britain recorded its hottest temperature ever with highs of 40C seen on July 19.

An amber heat-health warning was issued yesterday until 6pm on Saturday, August 13 with a 90 per cent chance of heatwave conditions.

A spokesperson for South Western Ambulance Service said: "If going out in the hot weather, walk in the shade, apply sunscreen, wear a hat and light, loose cotton clothes and keep hydrated."