Emergency services issue warning as another heatwave hits Wales

Emergency services have issued a warning as Wales faces another spell of extreme heat.

The country is experiencing its third heatwave of the year this week, with temperatures once again forecast to rise above 30C.

It comes just weeks after Wales recorded new temperature highs during the exceptional heatwave at the end of June.

Bute Park in Cardiff reached 35.9C, making it Wales’ hottest ever June day.

That heatwave caused major disruption across the country, with the Met Office issuing a red warning for extreme heat.

Hundreds of schools were closed and rail services were also cancelled.

Emergency services in Wales said they saw a sharp rise in demand during the prolonged period of hot weather.

The Welsh Ambulance Service received more than 400 extra emergency calls each day during June’s heatwave.

The service is now reminding people to only call 999 in a genuine life-threatening emergency.

Anyone who is unwell or has a minor injury is being advised to use the NHS 111 Wales website or the NHS Wales digital assistant, Albot, to find the right care.

Darren Panniers, head of service at the Welsh Ambulance Service, said warmer weather can increase demand and contribute to incidents such as falls caused by dehydration, dizziness, low blood pressure, tiredness and reduced mobility.

He urged people to watch for signs of dehydration, including confusion, unusual behaviour, weakness, extreme tiredness, headaches and reduced appetite.

He said early action can make a big difference, with simple steps such as offering cold drinks, ice lollies and foods with high water content helping to prevent dehydration.

Emergency services have also warned about the dangers of open water during hot weather.

During a heatwave in May, there were 10 water-related deaths across the UK, including one in Wales.

Public Health Wales has previously warned people about the risk of cold water shock when entering rivers, lakes or other bodies of water to cool down.

Water temperatures can remain much colder than the air, even during hot weather.

South Wales Fire and Rescue Service station manager Gavin Murphy said people should enjoy the warm weather safely but take care around open water.

He warned that rivers, lakes, reservoirs, quarries and canals can look calm but may be cold, deep and unpredictable.

He said cold water can quickly affect breathing and swimming ability.

People are being urged to use supervised swimming locations where possible, never jump into open water, avoid alcohol around water, and call 999 immediately if they see someone in difficulty.

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