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Thunderstorms warning as UK heatwave cools

Thunderstorms warning follows advice from Public Health England on how health professionals can help patients in summer months
Flooding

Heavy thunderstorms have hit parts of the UK as the heatwave comes to an end.

The Met Office issued a warning of widespread flash flooding after the hottest day of the year on Tuesday, where temperatures topped 33.5C and three people drowned attempting to cool off in rivers and lakes.

Despite the cooler weather, temperatures could still reach 26C this week, well above the average for this time of year.

Hot weather advice

Public Health England (PHE) issued the latest update to its heatwave plan in May to provide nurses and other health and social care professionals with advice on protecting vulnerable patients in hotter temperatures.

Advice for community nurses when making home visits included checking that patients have working fridges and fans, wear light cotton clothes and know how to seek medical help if necessary.

School nurses should ensure children are well hydrated and wear sunscreen and hats outside, while staff in care homes should look out for signs of heat-related illness.

PHE head of extreme events Angie Bone said: ‘By looking out for each other this summer, health professionals, councils and the public can all help each other stay well this summer.’

Further warnings are in place for Thursday, mainly affecting Scotland and the northern isles, although isolated storms could hit parts of England and Wales.

Further information:

Heatwave plan for England

Extreme hot weather in Wales