Heatwave triggers fresh warnings from authorities

A rare red warning for extreme heat remains in place as parts of the UK brace for more record-breaking temperatures.

The Met Office has extended its red warning currently in place for a large part of the East of England because of the exceptional heat and humidity, which is causing disruption to train services, planned events and forcing the emergency services and hospitals to issue fresh warnings about staying safe.

Temperatures could exceed 36C in these areas, perhaps rising to 38C in some places, they said.

Significant impacts on people's health and infrastructure are anticipated.

Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service and Bedford Borough Council have advised people not to enter rivers or open water and to enjoy them from the banks.

Open water may look inviting but "many people lose their lives each year in open due to the hidden dangers and risks," said a spokesperson.

"Cold water shock, strong currents and hidden hazards can quickly put lives at risk."

Councillor Andrea Spice, portfolio holder for economic prosperity, planning, housing and regulatory services said: "Lifebuoys and other water safety apparatus are vital pieces of lifesaving equipment.

"Misusing or removing them is not a harmless prank, it could prevent someone from being rescued in an emergency and may ultimately cost a life.

"We would encourage all members of the public to respect water safety equipment, report any damage or misuse, and help ensure that lifebuoys remain available when they are needed most."

The line between Luton and Bedford is shut after a fatal train crash involving two East Midlands Railway trains on Friday.

Govia Thameslink Railway [GTR] said services continue to be reduced on some routes, and passengers should only travel if it is "absolutely necessary".

GTR said trains would operate at reduced speeds and to amended timetables due to the heat, with a "heightened risk of delays, last-minute alterations and cancellations".

"There will be no rail replacement bus / taxi services during this period", a spokesperson said.

London Northwestern Railway confirmed it would continue operating a reduced timetable on many routes due to the continuing high temperatures.

Whipsnade Zoo's tiny three-week-old Asian elephant calf has been learning from his herd the best way to keep cool.

Born on 8 June, the zoo said he was a quick learner and had been kicking dust up herself to help regulate his body temperature.

"Dust bathing provides a natural suncream to protect an elephant's skin from the sun's rays, as well as being a family bonding activity," a spokesperson said.

Hospitals in the region have activated their heatwave plans and are closely monitoring conditions.

Buckinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust said its "teams are working hard to keep patients, visitors and colleagues safe, with the situation under regular review and cooling equipment deployed across our sites".

Bedfordshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust said elderly or vulnerable patients who "who are concerned about travelling to our hospital sites due to the extreme heat, can contact our outpatient call centre to see whether it is clinically appropriate for them to have a video or phone consultation instead of attending the site".

The NHS is encouraging people to follow this heatwave advice:

• Drink plenty of fluids and avoid excess alcohol

• Stay in the shade, particularly between 11am and 3pm

• Wear sunscreen, a hat and loose, light-coloured clothing when outdoors

• Keep homes cool by closing curtains or blinds in rooms facing the sun

• Open windows at night when the temperature drops

• Avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest part of the day

• Never leave children, older people or pets in parked cars.

Amersham Museum in Buckinghamshire is closed to visitors today due to the ongoing extreme heat.

The Welwyn Festival's Scrufts Dog Show on Saturday has been cancelled.

In a social media post organisers said: "It turns out that it's so hot that not even the 'Highest Jumper' can get more than an inch off the ground without panting for a water break.

"We can't have our furry contestants melting in this heatwave - we're trying to find the loveliest lady, not the hottest hot dog.

"Let's hope the only thing that gets overheated is our barbecue."

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