Latest news with #StephenDixon
The Independent
a day ago
- Climate
- The Independent
Europe heatwave latest: Wildfires rip through Greece as France, Spain and Italy brace for record temperatures
Wildfires have ripped through Greece as Europe is braced for extreme temperatures of up to 40C in some popular holiday hotspots. Warnings are in place for cities including Paris and Rome over the weekend and into next week as the continent is hit by a heatwave. Five villages south of Athens were evacuated on Thursday after a large wildfire, fanned by strong winds, raged near the capital. The fire department has deployed 90 firefighters, supported by eight water-dropping planes and five helicopters, to battle the inferno. Met Office spokesperson Stephen Dixon warned that southern and western Europe was experiencing a heatwave which was also extending into southeastern parts of the continent. 'Temperatures are expected to be 5-10C above normal fairly widely in Europe, with the potential for a few locations to reach around 40C in the southeast,' he said. '[This could be] possibly even higher across parts of Iberia from Friday, likely challenging some June records,' Mr Dixon added. France issues orange alert for 'stifling' heatwave Paris is facing a heatwave from Monday, with temperatures peaking at 39C on Tuesday and forecasters urging caution for people who have to be outside for longer periods of time. Mr Nicholls said those temperatures at this time of year for Paris were not common, last occurring in 2022. In the south of France, temperatures are expected to reach 40C in some areas and authorities have issued a severe fire risk warning and an orange alert for extreme heat for nine departments across central- and south-east France by Saturday. In inland areas of those departments, temperatures could climb to 42C, Le Parisien reports. Meteo France warned that high surface temperatures on the Mediterranean Sea could also affect overnight minimum temperatures, 'making nights more stifling during the heatwave'. Alexander Butler27 June 2025 15:12 Spanish and Portuguese temperatures to exceed 40C Temperatures in Spain began to rise sharply on Friday, with heatwave conditions expected to continue until at least Tuesday with extremely high temperatures potentially reaching 42C in parts of the country, according to Spain's meteorological office. 'Very high and persistent temperatures are expected, both during the day and at night, which could pose a risk to exposed and/or vulnerable people,' the agency said. In the Canary Islands, temperatures could reach as high as 36C on Saturday, while inland Mallorca will occasionally reach 38C. Also on the Iberian peninsula, Portugal's weather forecaster has issued an orange warning for extreme high temperatures over the weekend. Temperatures in Lisbon and central Portugal are forecast to exceed 42C by Sunday and the high 30s in southern parts of the country. Alexander Butler27 June 2025 15:09 Pictured: Water planes tackle wildfires in Greece Alexander Butler27 June 2025 15:07 Wildfire rips through Greece as heatwave sets in Urgent evacuation orders have been issued for five communities south of Athens as a large wildfire, fanned by strong winds and exacerbated by Greece's first summer heatwave, rages near the capital. The blaze broke out on Thursday in the Palaia Fokaia seaside area, with temperatures soaring close to 40 degrees Celsius (104 Fahrenheit). The fire department has deployed 90 firefighters, supported by eight water-dropping planes and five helicopters, to battle the inferno. Reportedly originating within a populated area, the flames have sent thick plumes of smoke billowing across the sky, with local television footage showing at least one house already consumed by the blaze. As a precautionary measure, the coast guard has positioned two patrol boats and nine private vessels on standby in the Palaia Fokaia area, ready for a potential evacuation by sea. A lifeboat is also en route to assist with any maritime rescue operations. Alexander Butler27 June 2025 15:02
BBC News
20-06-2025
- Climate
- BBC News
Why your hayfever may be bad at the moment
Sneezing, itchy and running eyes, or a scratchy throat. All can take the pleasure out of a sunny summers day, and all could be due to pollen levels in your the next few days very high grass pollen levels are predicted across the respite should come for some from Sunday onwards as we move to slightly breezier, more changeable you're not on your own as pollen-induced hayfever affects approximately 13 million people in the UK and around 95% of those cases can be attributed to grass. We are currently just past the peak of the grass pollen season, which generally runs from late May to early we can expect regional variations in the length and potency of that across the northern Scotland it tends to be shorter, but in areas such as south-east England grass pollen can continue to affect some people all the way through until early not just grass pollen that could be the cause of those sneezes at the moment pollen and fungal spores are also on the rise as they head towards their summer peak. Whilst dry and warm weather are often responsible too, some types of fungal spores, such as Leptosphaeria can increase temporarily during you're very badly affected at the moment you might be pleased to know that this year grass pollen levels aren't expected to be above average over all. Met Office spokesperson Stephen Dixon said this is due to the UK weather in late spring where the combination of warm weather increased grass growth, but the dry conditions conversely reduced that growing potential."While short dry spells and high temperatures mid-season can increase pollen levels, over a prolonged period this could lead to depletion of the available pollen on the plants," he added. When are pollen levels at their highest? Pollen levels can vary from day to day, even hour to hour depending on weather are at their highest during dry and in warm weather, but can decline if the dry spell is a prolonged onset of rainfall helps to dampen down pollen, but the return of a dry and sunny spell can see a sudden rise in levels of day can be crucial too. Hayfever can be at it's worst early morning and from late afternoon onwards. On sunny days, these are the times when winds tend to be at their lightest and the pollen is concentrated in the lower atmosphere, close to nose and eyes. Is there anything I can do to avoid pollen? It's not an easy thing to avoid here in the UK.A first step could be to check the forecast where you are. Up to date forecasts are available on the BBC Weather website and app from late spring to early search for your location and you will find the latest data alongside the UV forecast. If you are particularly susceptible to hayfever try to avoid being outdoors early and in late in the day when pollen levels can be at their and changing your clothes once you've returned home can help to reduce the be mindful when hanging washing out on high pollen days. Pollen landing on clothes and sheets can then be easily brought don't forget our beloved pets. Limit contact or wash hands after handling them if they have also been you want to escape high pollen days sometimes a trip to the coast may help. However, you will need a location where there is a steady wind coming in off the sea and not the land. Is climate change affecting the pollen season? Like much of the natural world, our changing climate is likely to impact pollen levels in the UK in the years to a Government report on the health affects of climate change in the UK, external there are three ways a warming world could impact pollen patternsChanges in temperature and rainfall patterns could lengthen the pollen season and increase pollen is possible that pollen particles could become more potent, with greater amounts of the allergy causing agent on them.A changing distribution of allergenic plants across the UK, including invasive species, could see potential pollen levels increase in some areas.
Metro
20-06-2025
- Health
- Metro
Feeling impulsive? This is how the warm weather is affecting your brain
The UK is melting, with heatwave highs of 33°C temperatures predicted by Saturday. Yes, we know that other countries have greater burdens to bear, but the hot weather 'hits different' here, with Met Office spokesperson Stephen Dixon telling Metro: 'Meteorologically, the UK air tends to be more humid compared to that in continental Europe. High humidity can make it harder for sweat to evaporate, which is how we naturally cool ourselves down.' The impact? Your body – and crucially, your brain – is under greater strain, leading to everything from sluggishness to poor impluse control. 'The temperature that the body needs to stay within is an unbelievably narrow window,' consultant neurologist, Dr Steve Allder, tells Metro. 'If your temperature rises from 37C to 41C there's a very good chance that it would kill you. Similarly, if it dropped from 37C to 33C, you would really start to struggle. 'The body really has to work hard to keep our temperature in a tight range, especially in hot weather, and that then takes energy away from the brain.' A&E doctor, Dr Mark Cox tells Metro: 'When you're hot, your body is in a constant state of thermoregulation (keeping your temperature stable). 'This burns energy and diverts blood flow toward the skin to release heat, which means less energy and oxygen get to your brain.' 'You'll notice it in things like memory lapses, poor concentration and slower decision-making,' Dr Mark says. And while we all might find ourselves getting a bit, well, aggy, in hot weather, Dr Mark says that's to do with your brain too. Dr Sameer Sanghvi, GP at Lloyds Pharmacy Online Doctor, warns that hot weather can be particularly dangerous for people taking antidepressants. He explains: 'Common antidepressants can all stop the temperature-regulating area of the brain from functioning as it should. Serotonin-noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors(SNRIS) and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIS) are some of the most commonly prescribed antidepressants.' If you are prescribed these antidepressants, Dr Sanghvi warns not to suddenly stop taking them. 'You should always consult your doctor before making changes to your mental health medication,' he adds. 'The best thing you can do is take precautions to stay cool: stick to the shade; drink plenty of fluids and avoid alcohol.' 'Heat can amplify reactivity in the brain's emotion centre, the amygdala, and reduce the calming influence of the parasympathetic nervous system,' says Dr Mark, co-founder of Orli Health. More Trending 'That makes people more prone to irritability, impulsiveness and even aggression.' For those with existing neurological conditions, warm weather can cause these symptoms to worsen. Dr Steve, who works at Re: Cognition, says that those with multiple sclerosis, for example, 'will have far less resilience' to cope with temperature changes. He adds: 'This is also true for something like migraines. People find that they get more migraines when it gets hot.' If your body can't cool itself down, you risk developing heat exhaustion, which could progress to heat stroke if left untreated, a life-threatening condition. Dr Allder says that those doing prolonged exercise in the sun should be careful of developing heat stroke, especially if they're not taking in enough fluids. He adds: 'Make sure to stop if you feel lightheaded or woozy.' To protect yourself from the temperature changes, Dr Allder advises avoiding the sun, hydrating and resting. Most adults should aim to drink at least six to eight glasses a day (around 1.5-2 litres), but Dr Allder advises getting an extra 500ml to 1 litre per day. According to the NHS, the signs of heat exhaustion include: Weakness Tiredness Dizziness Headache Feeling sick or being sick Excessive sweating and skin becoming pale and clammy, or getting a rash Cramps in the arms, legs and stomach Fast breathing or heartbeat A high temperature Being very thirsty If someone is showing signs of heat exhaustion, they need to be cooled won and given fluids, the NHS website says. Heat exhaustion does not usually need medical help if you can cool down within 30 minutes. However, if it turns into heatstroke, it needs to be treated as an emergency. Do you have a story to share? Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@ View More » MORE: Wildfire warning issued for London after city reaches 32°C MORE: Teen struck by lightning at famed park as freak thunderstorm hit New York City MORE: London's best lidos, ponds and outdoor pools to beat the heatwave Your free newsletter guide to the best London has on offer, from drinks deals to restaurant reviews.
Metro
19-06-2025
- Climate
- Metro
Why does 30 degrees in the UK feel like it 'hits different'
People in the UK love to complain about the weather and this could be justified after much of the UK is predicted to enter a heatwave. A hot weather health warning covering all of England has also been upgraded to amber ahead of 33°C temperatures predicted on Saturday. The UK Health Security Agency has warned that a rise in deaths is likely 'particularly among those aged 65 and over or with health conditions'. While the UK has been gripped by hot temperatures this week, Americans across social media have been posting about how 30°C feels hotter in the UK compared to being abroad. A TikTok user called redbusruss said: 'I am never doubting a Brit again when they tell me that the UK sun hits different. I feel like I'm in a sauna.' Another on TikTok called kalanighosthunter posted a video of himself putting his face in a freezer and joked that Britain conquered the world to escape the heat. 'I always thought British people were lying when they said how hot it is over here but for some reason it just feels like you are melting,' kalanighosthunter also said on his TikTok account. An American who has spent three summers in the UK with the TikTok username mortonsmunchies said: 'How are we surviving this heat? I'm not used to the heat and not having air conditioning.' So why does the UK feel hotter than other countries when temperatures get like this? We take a look below. Quite rightly, people are wondering why the temperatures always feel sweltering when it gets to this time of the year. Met Office spokesperson Stephen Dixon has a few answers and told Metro: 'Meteorologically, the UK air tends to be more humid compared to that in continental Europe. 'High humidity can make it harder for sweat to evaporate, which is how we naturally cool ourselves down.' Another reason behind why we are all feeling so hot right now is the way in which our houses are built. 'Houses in Europe are often more adapted to higher temperatures, allowing those inside to stay cool,' Stephen explained. 'While many in the UK need well insulated homes for those cold winter months, which means they naturally retain heat.' If going outside between the hours of 11am and 3pm, avoid the heat where possible, seek shade, apply sunscreen, wear a hat and light clothing. To stay cool, eat cold meals and drink beverages but steer clear of alcohol, caffeine and warm drinks. Take a cool shower or apply cool water to your skin and clothing. To maintain a cool environment at home, shut windows during hotter hours and open them at night. Use electric fans when the temperature is below 35°C. Keep an eye on temperatures in rooms, especially those used by vulnerable individuals. Source: NHS The last factor is all down to people's mentality which is different to when they are abroad on holiday. More Trending Stephen added: 'When people from the UK go abroad, they're often well-prepared for heat. 'Many European countries have a routine (meal times) that are adapted to it being hot. 'The heat can sometimes feel worse in the UK simply down to not expecting it in the same way people do when they go abroad.' Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at webnews@ For more stories like this, check our news page. MORE: London's best lidos, ponds and outdoor pools to beat the heatwave MORE: Does drinking alcohol in the sun really get you drunk faster? A doctor shares their verdict MORE: Doctor recommends surprising drink instead of water in a heatwave — and it's not tea
Sky News
01-05-2025
- Climate
- Sky News
UK weather latest: Highest temperature today confirmed - after May record broken
What does the forecast for the coming Bank Holiday weekend look like? Today was the hottest start to May on record with a peak of 28.2C recorded at Charlwood in Surrey. But temperatures are expected to ease by Friday and Saturday, with cooler conditions of 14C to 18C across the UK. Here's a more detailed breakdown of the weather in the coming days. Friday Some rain is expected in central areas but this should clear up by the morning. It will be sunnier across the UK, and cloudier in the afternoon. The sunny weather will, however, persist in Northern Ireland, some parts of western Scotland and northern England. Quite a bit of sun is expected in the east and southwest of England and some parts of the southeast. A peak of 24C is expected in the south and southeast of England. Saturday More clouds will be settling in across the UK but some sunshine will be seen in the west, in areas like Pembroke and Hereford, and central areas, such as Birmingham, are also set for yet more sunshine. Some areas of western and northern Scotland will also be sunny, while clouds are expected in Northern Ireland, although these are set to make way for more sunshine in the afternoon. Areas in eastern England are expected to clear up on Saturday afternoon, with sunshine expected around Hull, York, Sheffield, Darlington and Norwich. More sunshine is also forecast in the southwest. London may reach a high of 21C. Sunday The forecast is mainly cloudy in the UK on Sunday morning except for areas in Wales, western Scotland and Northern Ireland. The afternoon will see more sunshine in the southwest of England, including Devon and Cornwall, and in the north of Scotland. The southwest is expected to have the highest temperature at 17C on Sunday afternoon. Stephen Dixon, a Met Office spokesman, said on Thursday afternoon: "Temperatures tomorrow will be slightly reduced from what we've seen today, possibly 26 or 27 degrees in the far south-east of England through the day tomorrow." Monday The Bank Holiday is forecast to be mostly dry across the UK - as the Met Office forecast map below demonstrates. But temperatures will be way down and a lot more seasonal. In London, temperatures won't get much above 14C. For Edinburgh, a peak of 13C is forecast. In Cardiff, it's 14C, while for Belfast the highest temperature will likely be around the 12C mark. So while it might still be dry enough to get out and about, enjoy the weekend heat while it lasts.
