Extreme heat
Heatwaves can cause discomfort, distress and death in some cases. This section explains what the main risks are and how you can look after yourself.
Click on the links below to get some answers to key questions about heatwaves in London:
- How often do heathwaves affect London?
- What impact does can a heatwave have on London?
- What is being done to reduce the impact?
- What can I do to help myself and others?
- Useful resources
- Related links
How often do heat waves affect London?
With climate change heatwaves will become more common. By the 2080s, it is predicted that heat waves will happen in England every year.
What impact does it have on London?
At the very least, a heat wave can make life in the capital uncomfortable and at its most extreme heat waves can cause sickness and death. During the heat wave of 2003, it’s estimated that more than 2,000 people died in England. Elderly people are particularly at risk during prolonged spells of hot weather.
What is being done to reduce the impact of heat waves?
The Heatwave Plan for England, first published in 2004, has been revised as a part of raising both public and professional awareness. The Plan sets out the arrangements that will apply, and the actions required, before and during a heatwave.
There will also be a distribution of leaflets and factsheets which are part of a national programme to reduce the health risks by alerting people to the risks and encouraging preventative measures through forward planning and personal action.
Heat waves are more likely now due to climate change, so strategies for preventing them are linked with plans for global warming, so take a look at London Climate Change website for more information.
What can I do to help myself and others?
There are a number of ways you can reduce the impact of extreme heat on your health, here’s some of them:
- Try to avoid going out in the hottest part of the day (11am - 3pm).
- Stay in the shade if you do go out.
- Wear a hat and light loose fitting clothes, preferably cotton.
- Keep the sun out of your house – shutters are best. If you have curtains, then pale colours or reflective material is better than dark colours which absorb the heat.
- Take cool showers or baths and splash yourself several times a day with cold water, particularly your face and the back of your neck.
- Drink regularly, even if you do not feel thirsty. Water and fruit juice are best.
- Keep an eye on older relatives or neighbours and help them follow the instructions above, focus particularly on encouraging them to drink plenty of water.