Between the 18th and 19th of July, the UK recorded a temperature of over 40C (104F) for the first time - as the heat continues to rise. While some animals at ZSL London Zoo ate frozen sugar-free iced tea and nuts, a water crisis hit part of the UK. Figures released by NHS Digital show that there were 185,184 visits to the health advice page on heat exhaustion and heatstroke last week (9 – 15 July), compared to 29,608 in the previous week (2 – 8 July). There was also another surge in visits last weekend (16 – 17 July) with 86,914 visits in 48 hours – an average of one visit every two seconds. Silver insulation foil was placed over the chains on Hammersmith Bridge in London to reflect the sun and stop it from overheating. Some schools relaxed their uniform policy, allowing children to wear their PE kits to help keep them cool.
Citing the heatwave as one of the reasons, it was reported that the RAF halted flights in and out of its biggest airbase after the runway reportedly melted on a day of extremely hot weather. However, an RAF spokesperson exclusively told Asian Voice, “During this period of extreme temperature flight safety remains our top priority, so aircraft are using alternative airfields in line with a long established plan. This means there is no impact on RAF operations.” They further added that the RAF Brize Norton has a Business Continuity Plan (BCP) in place which takes into consideration such events. The BCP may include reduced movement around an airfield or the use of alternative locations. Inbound flights may be redirected to other locations if necessary. Inspections are being carried out daily…it is hoped the runway will reopen in the next day or so.
Last week London Mayor Sadiq Khan convened a special meeting of the Mayors Advisory Group with key senior officials from agencies including the NHS, the Met Police, London Fire Brigade, London Ambulance Service, London Councils and Transport for London - to ensure London’s agencies have a robust plan in place to deal with the level four heat alert. Earlier this week Sadiq also triggered a severe weather emergency response in the capital to support rough sleepers struggling to stay safe in soaring temperatures. This ongoing heatwave could be dangerous for anyone, but for people sleeping rough, there are additional risks. That is why City Hall is working with London’s boroughs to prioritise support for some of the most vulnerable Londoners.
No lessons learned from COP26?
During the inauguration of the COP26 climate summit, PM Johnson said, “Humanity has long since run down the clock on climate change. “It’s one minute to midnight and we need to act now. If we don’t get serious about climate change today, it will be too late for our children to do so tomorrow.
“We need to get real about climate change and the world needs to know when that’s going to happen.”
Unfortunately, as the UK battles a heatwave, it may not be right to say that this was “unprecedented”. When the leaders knew that the climate crisis was about to get real, why weren’t more warnings issued beforehand to alert Britons about this heatwave? The climate change crisis has been looming on us for years, and the very fact that COP26 saw a teary-eyed President Alok Sharma pondering over the global consequences of climate change is not very old news.
In fact, in an interview with the Observer, Alok Sharma said a total commitment to the net zero agenda from whoever is to lead the country would be essential to avoid “incredible damage” to Britain’s global standing, as well as irreversible harm to the UK and international economies.
“This is absolutely a leadership issue,” Sharma said, accusing some of the candidates of being “lukewarm” on net zero in the contest so far.
“Anyone aspiring to lead our country needs to demonstrate that they take this issue incredibly seriously, that they’re willing to continue to lead and take up the mantle that Boris Johnson started off. I want to see candidates very proactively set out their support for our net zero agenda for green growth.”
Asked if he could resign if candidates were weak on net zero, Sharma said: “Let’s see, shall we? I think we need to see where the candidates are. And we need to see who actually ends up in No 10. I hope every candidate realises why this is so important for voters generally and why it’s important for Conservative supporters. And I hope that we will see, particularly with the final two, a very clear statement that this is an agenda that they do support.”
COP26 wasted by Tory government, says Labour MP
Labour MP Virendra Sharma told the newsweekly, "The extreme weather we are seeing at the moment is man-made, and can be reversed. It is not healthy and it is not safe. COP26 was an opportunity to do more, but it was wasted by this Tory Government. The most vulnerable in society are at risk, the young and old, the sick and the unhealthy. We need real action from governments around the world. On the 13th of August, I am hosting the third British South Asian Youth Summit at 2 pm BST online, welcoming representatives from the eight countries that make up South Asia alongside the UK for those under 31 years old. The Summit coincides with South Asian Heritage Month and works in its continued aim to foster cooperation and understanding between South Asia and Britain, as well as integrating the next generation of leaders."
Bob Blackman, Conservative MP for Harrow East told Asian Voice, “The temperatures across the United Kingdom are set to hit record highs over the summer heatwave, with 43-degree heat predicted. Whilst it is a welcome change from typical English weather, this significant heat can pose great dangers to everyone, particularly the vulnerable if precautionary measures are not taken.
“It is crucially important that we all drink plenty of water throughout the day to ensure hydration levels are maintained. Where possible, you should also seek out shade, wear light clothing and eat sufficient, healthy foods to replace any salts lost through perspiration. During these extreme weather conditions, we must also look out for each other. If you know of somebody who may be vulnerable, check in on them at some point. They may be isolated due to the severe travel disruption caused.
“Above all, I hope you enjoy the sunny weather in a sensible fashion. I would like to thank the emergency services that continue to support our communities during these unprecedented times.”
Water supply issues hit UK
Water provider Affinity Water said the heat is resulting in lower water pressure in areas such as London, Essex and Surrey. The company urged customers to avoid non-essential water usage and said it predicts an extra 164 million litres of water will be needed on a Monday compared to normal demand. Similar weather-related supply issues were seen in Bristol, with the Bristol Water Foundation warning this week’s heat wave might affect the pressure and taste of its water.
Isolating elderly in care homes amid heatwave is life-threatening, charity warns
Families with relatives in care homes have expressed anger and frustration after their loved ones were forced to isolate themselves in their rooms during the heatwave owing to Covid. Some care homes have implemented measures to help keep their vulnerable residents cool, but at some care homes, restrictions have been imposed. Director of charity The Relatives & Residents Association, Helen Wildbore said, “It’s going to be really concerning in terms of their health. Not just their mental health … if curtains are closed and they’re just stuck in their room and there’s no stimulation, their cognitive abilities can decline,” she added. “This is also really concerning in terms of physical health too. “If you’re an older person and you have varying health conditions, the heat is not just an annoyance…it could be life-threatening.”
High temperatures impact productivity
But, what does the law entail for those who may want to take a leave or require some relaxation while we beat the heat wave? Answer this question for the readers of Asian Voice, Lawyer Shoaib Khan explained, “Employers must ensure that the work environment does not harm workers' health and should make arrangements to counter extreme temperatures. High temperatures affect comfort, productivity and people's health.
“While there is no legally-prescribed maximum workplace temperature, Regulations say that workplaces must have "reasonable" temperatures. What "reasonable" means would vary from employer to employer and place to place. Therefore, whilst no maximum temperature is prescribed by law, workplaces must consider their legal obligations when making work arrangements.
“Workers should let their employers know if they have concerns or are uncomfortable due to the working conditions. People of certain ages and with certain conditions can be more vulnerable to severe weather, so employers must consider this.
“Although there is no explicit legal obligation on employers to allow people to work from home in hot weather or vary their hours, these are obviously options they should consider to protect workers’ health.”
What are the British doing to beat the heat?
While Mayank Shah, Founder and CEO of MSDUK is beating the heat with the classic Indian home recipe of chhaas (salt lassi) and nimbu paani (lemonade), Chef Jomon Kuriakose of The Lalit London has reduced the level of spices from the food he’s making for his customers and is personally adding more greens to his diet. He urged everyone must keep themselves hydrated and consume more vegetables which are high in water content. He suggests having light food like yoghurt rice.
In response to the London Fire Brigade declaring a major incident across the capital, Labour’s London Assembly Fire and Resilience Spokesperson, Anne Clarke AM, said: “During the record-breaking heatwave London’s firefighters are working incredibly hard in hot, challenging conditions to bring multiple blazes under control across the capital. I’m urging all Londoners not to have barbecues or bonfires, especially in parks or open spaces, please don't leave broken bottles or glass on the ground as these can cause fires and dispose of cigarettes safely. Please also look out for vulnerable family, friends and neighbours, especially older people and those with underlying health conditions, to make sure they are safe, and keeping cool and hydrated. It’s critical people only call 999 if there is a genuine emergency or if there’s an immediate risk to life.”
Darjeeling Express Founder Asma Khan tweeted: “If you are going out to restaurant or cafe this week- please be patient and considerate- leave a generous tip. The team preparing & serving your food- the kitchen Porter washing dishes in this heat are all working in very hot kitchens. #BeKind”
