Temperatures are expected to reach blistering highs over the coming days with the Met Office issuing a "national alert".

An amber warning for "extreme heat" has been issued across Dorset from 12am on Sunday, July 17 until 11.59pm on Tuesday, July 19.

Forecasts suggest the worst of the heat could come on either Monday or Tuesday with the Met Office saying it will likely cause a "widespread impact on people and infrastructure".

For the first time ever the Met Office has forecast temperatures of 40C in some parts of the country and issued a red extreme heat warning in parts of central, northern, eastern and southeastern England.

Paul Gundersen said, Chief Meteorologist at the Met Office, said: “Exceptional, perhaps record-breaking temperatures are likely early next week, quite widely across the red warning area on Monday, and focussed a little more east and north on Tuesday.

"Currently there is a 50% chance we could see temperatures top 40C and 80% we will see a new maximum temperature reached."

WHAT TO EXPECT

Referring to the amber warning of extreme heat affecting Dorset, a Met Office spokesperson said:

  • Adverse health effects are likely to be experienced by those vulnerable to extreme heat. Government advice is that 999 services should be used in emergencies only; seek advice from 111 if you need non-emergency health advice.
  • The wider population are likely to experience some adverse health effects including sunburn or heat exhaustion (dehydration, nausea, fatigue) and other heat related illnesses
  • Some changes in working practices and daily routines likely to be required
  • An increased chance that some heat-sensitive systems and equipment may fail, potentially leading to localised power cuts and the loss of other services to some homes and businesses
  • More people are likely to visit coastal areas, lakes and rivers leading to an increased risk of water safety incidents
  • Some delays to road, rail and air travel are possible, with potential for welfare issues for those who experience prolonged delays

HOW HOT WILL IT GET?

According to the Met Office forecast, highs of around 32C can be expected along the Dorset coast with warmer temperatures in-land.

The Met Office suggests Monday will be the hottest day with Dorchester forecast for 32C; Bridport is likely to see highs of 31C; whilst Weymouth and Lyme Regis will be slightly cooler at around 27C.

EMERGENCY SERVICES CALL FOR CAUTION

Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service has reminded residents and visitors not to have barbecuse on heathland or in open spaces: the hot, dry conditions meaning there's an increased risk of fires spreading.

South Western Ambulance Service has said they face "extreme pressure" as a result of "sustained demand". They urged the public to only ring 999 in the event of a life-threatening emergency.