The UK is expected to experience a severe heatwave over the coming week, with possibly record-breaking temperatures and several health alerts in place.
The heatwave could see temperatures as high as 40C in some parts of England and Wales, forecasters have said, which would far surpass the 34C June record set in 1976.
The Met Office has issued a rare red weather warning covering areas including London, Swansea, Somerset and Birmingham, which lasts from 9am on Wednesday to 9pm on Thursday.
An amber weather warning is also in place for a larger part of the UK between Monday and Thursday. It spans the entirety of Wales, and in England stretches as far north as Blackpool.
Dr Will Lang, chief meteorologist at the Met Office, said: “We are forecasting extreme temperatures in the next few days, particularly on Wednesday and Thursday, when it looks like we’ll be seeing maximum temperatures into the high 30s.
“But also we are stressing very high overnight temperatures which will be very uncomfortable for vulnerable groups, and very humid conditions as well.”
The uncomfortable conditions are set to surpass the heat seen last month, with human-influenced climate change making the extreme conditions more common, according to the Met Office.
The UK is not a nation typically used to high temperatures like these, and so coping can sometimes feel especially difficult.
At any time of the year, tea is one of the nation’s favourite drinks – but many are unsure if they should opt for a hot beverage during heatwave conditions. Luckily, research has been conducted in this area to help people decide.
Can hot drinks cool you down?
Studies show that hot drinks can surprisingly reduce body temperature – but no more than cool drinks.
A 2016 study by Loughborough University found that a key factor in which is better depends on the environment. Researchers found that hot drinks increase sweat production, and so in moderate, dry heat can leave people feeling cooler long-term as this evaporates from the skin.
But in hotter and more humid conditions, it is usually preferable not to sweat excessively, as this can lead to “inefficient sweat losses” which will affect overall hydration.
And this is key – staying hydrated is one of the most important things in hot weather, with more liquid than usual required to prevent dehydration.
Overall, the difference between ingesting hot and cool drinks is minimal, although cooler drinks will likely provide more immediate relief. What’s most important is drinking plenty of liquid to aid general hydration.
For the latest updates and tips during the UK’s June heatwave, follow the Independent’s live coverage
