Heat health alert extended in South West

An amber heat health alert has been extended in the South West by 15 hours as temperatures above 30C (86F) are forecast.

The Met Office and UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) issued an update on Monday saying the alert it had initially put in place until 18:00 BST on Tuesday would continue until 09:00 BST on Wednesday.

The UKHSA said the hot weather that was forecast was expected to have a significant impact on health and social care services.

Six other regions in England were also covered by the alert as some areas could reach as high as 35C (95F), the UKHSA added.

The agency said the South West joined the West Midlands, Yorkshire and the Humber, the East Midlands, the South East, London and the East of England in being subject to an extended amber heat alert.

Dr Agostinho Sousa, head of extreme events and health protection at UKHSA, said the current spell of hot weather was forecast to continue until the middle of the week.

He added people should take "sensible precautions" while enjoying the sun.

"Remember that it is very important to check on friends, family and neighbours who are more vulnerable, as the temperatures we are likely to see over the next few days can result in serious health outcomes across the population, especially for older adults or those with pre-existing health conditions," Dr Sousa said.

The Met Office and UKHSA said some areas could have temperatures above 20C (68F) overnight in what have been described as "tropical night" conditions.

Met Office chief meteorologist Paul Gundersen added: "These sorts of temperatures make it hard to sleep and prevent any recovery from the high daytime temperatures too.

"Tuesday will be another hot day, though the highest temperatures will be more confined to the south east of England where 35°C is possible.

"Fresher air and some rainfall will move in from the West through the rest of the week, bringing an end to this heatwave, although many parts will remain dry and still see plenty of sunshine."

Follow BBC Cornwall on X, Facebook and Instagram. Follow BBC Devon on X, Facebook and Instagram. Send your story ideas to [email protected].