The UK Health Security Agency has increased the health warning from level three to level four.

This ‘national emergency’ follows the rare red alert issued by the Met Office on Friday (July 15) where temperatures may reach beyond the existing record of 38.7C on Monday July 18 and Tuesday July 19.

Signifying a risk to life, people are being warned to stay home if possible, and this warning applies to those who are fit and healthy, not just those in a high-risk category.

Annie Shuttleworth is a press officer and meteorologist at the Met Office.

She said: “Temperatures across southern England are expected to widely be in the mid 30’s on Monday and Tuesday with some spots in more eastern areas of southern England seeing the high 30’s.”

While it is likely that Salisbury will avoid the maximum temperatures of 40C, as the heat builds it can lead to many health problems and affect sleep patterns.

The temperature is predicted to be about 35C during the day on Monday July 18 and will remain high at 31C at 9pm, so planning how to stay cool is important.

For those who struggle with the heat, it can help to place a thin damp towel or cloth over a fan to blow cool air into the room.

Take a cool shower or bath to help maintain body temperature. Hydration is vital. It is important to drink before feeling thirsty as at this point, fluid replacement is behind.

Keep rooms cool by pulling down the blinds.

Heat stroke is dangerous and occurs when body temperature rises rapidly and cannot cool down by sweating. It is a serious life-threatening condition which can lead to multi-organ dysfunction.

Rapid cooling with an ice bath will help.  

The heatwave can be difficult for anyone but those over the age of 75 or if living alone will be vulnerable. This is the same for those with health concerns like diabetes, kidney disease, heart, or lung conditions.

People with some mental health conditions may be at risk too. 

Monitor babies and young children and keep them from having too much sun as it can be difficult for body temperatures to remain steady.

For those who have to work outside, it is important to seek shade when possible, to remain hydrated and to protect skin.

Pets struggle with the heat too so avoid taking dogs out for walks when really warm as their paws can sustain serious burns from the hot surfaces. Never leave animals in hot cars and ensure they always have plenty of water but more so, in extreme temperatures.

From Wednesday July 20, the temperature drops to mid-twenties, but humidity is predicted to be at 55 per cent but should become more bearable. 

Get more Salisbury news. 

You can also like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter and Instagram to stay up to date, as well as signing up for one of our newsletters.

If you want online news with fewer ads, unlimited access and reader rewards - plus a chance to support our local journalism - find out more about registering or a digital subscription.

Email newsdesk@salisburyjournal.co.uk with your comments, pictures, letters and news stories.