Heatwave health warning as UV levels will be 'exceptionally high'

The mercury is expected to hit 28C in Portsmouth today, leading forecasters and medics to tell people to take extra precautions to stay safe in the sun.

Warnings have been issued about UV levels, which are going to be ‘exceptionally high’ over the next couple of days.

Met Office meteorologist Alex Burkill told the PA news agency that UV levels will be ‘reaching eight across many places and will be reaching nine across parts of Devon and Cornwall tomorrow.

‘That's about as high as it gets really in the UK.

‘The sun is as strong as it gets at the moment because we're so close to the solstice.

‘We've got peak sun strength, clear skies, plenty of sunshine - it's the perfect ingredients for high UV.’

The Met Office is forecasting that UV levels will reach eight at 1pm in Portsmouth today.

Mr Burkill advised anyone outside for prolonged periods of time on Wednesday and Thursday to take measures to protect themselves.

Shoppers have also been advised to be aware they could be forced to spend extra time in the sun as a result of social distancing measures.

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Dr Lynn Thomas, medical director at St John Ambulance, said: ‘You could end up in the sun for longer than expected on what would normally be a quick journey, such as queuing to enter the supermarket, so you should be prepared to look after yourself and others.’

She added: ‘Heat exhaustion and heatstroke are two of the most serious problems that can develop when the mercury soars but by being prepared you can spot the early warning signs, such as headache and dizziness.’

Tuesday was not quite the hottest day of the year, as the 28.6C recorded at Heathrow Airport and Kew Gardens fell short of the 28.9C recorded at the end of May.

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