Suffolk is set to sizzle as forecasters predict a blistering heatwave reaching into the high 30s this week.
Temperatures are expected to climb above 30C across much of the county, with the highest readings forecast for Santon Downham, Ipswich, Bury St Edmunds, and Stowmarket.
Wednesday is expected to be the hottest day, with inland areas potentially reaching 37C, while coastal towns such as Aldeburgh, Lowestoft, and Felixstowe could see highs of 32C.
Temperatures are likely to remain high through Thursday and Friday, peaking around 34C and 31C, before falling below 30C on Saturday.
The Met Office has issued an amber extreme heat warning running until Thursday night, advising that the combination of record-breaking June temperatures and high humidity could have wide-ranging impacts on public health, infrastructure, power, and water supplies.
The Met Office warning covers much of southern England and south-eastern Wales and may be updated as forecasts evolve.
Tom Crabtree, Met Office deputy chief forecaster, said: “The forecast heatwave is developing into an impactful severe weather event, with record-breaking June temperatures and very high humidity.
“As well as very high daytime temperatures, there will be consecutive nights where temperatures do not drop below 20°C, which is called a Tropical Night.
“This will make it very hard for people to recover from the daytime heat, exacerbating the heat stress impacts.”
The hot weather has prompted safety warnings for both people and animals.
Essex & Suffolk Water is warning the public to stay safe while swimming (Image: Sarah Lucy brown)
Essex & Suffolk Water has urged the public to stay safe around water and avoid swimming in reservoirs.
David Hall, head of leisure and commercial services at Essex & Suffolk Water, said: “We know people want to make the most of the warmer weather and enjoy being outdoors, but it’s really important that our reservoirs are not used for swimming.
“Our message is simple: stay safe and avoid swimming in reservoirs.
“They are working sites and not designed for recreational use, and we want everyone to enjoy the summer safely.”
Mr Hall explained that reservoirs pose hidden dangers such as cold water shock and strong currents, and reminded visitors to follow on-site safety signs and guidance.
The heatwave has also raised concerns for animal welfare.
The RSPCA is urging pet owners to take extra precautions during the extreme temperatures to keep their animals safe and comfortable.
Lauren Bennett, dog welfare expert at the RSPCA, said: “It’s really simple – planning ahead and being prepared in this hot weather can help save pets’ lives.
“Complacency can mean soaring temperatures are a silent killer for our beloved animals.”
The charity is reminding owners to avoid walking dogs during the hottest part of the day, to never leave pets in cars, and to prepare their homes to keep animals cool.
People are being urged to keep their pets safe during the hot weather (Image: RSPCA)
Ms Bennett said: “As the heatwave has already started to ramp up, the temptation is for us to keep as cool as possible – whether that’s taking a parasol for a trip to the seaside or stocking up the fridge for a BBQ.
“However, we are reminding pet owners to keep a really close eye on their animals during this heatwave, skip the hot walks, and never ever leave their dog in a hot vehicle.”
The RSPCA is also calling on the public to look out for wildlife and pets in their communities by leaving out shallow bowls of water and checking on neighbours’ animals.
Signs of heatstroke in pets include heavy panting, drooling, vomiting, or uncoordinated movement.
Owners are advised to move affected animals to shade, pour cool water over their bodies, create airflow, and contact a vet immediately.
