This summer is expected to be the hottest in years. The Met Office has issued a level two heat wave alert. This means that present high temperatures can be dangerous for vulnerable people, especially the very young, elderly, and those with chronic medical conditions. Intense heat can be very destructive. There is a 40% chance that the North East will have heat wave conditions.

In the Darlington area temperatures are not expected to rise above 26 degrees on Wednesday 1st July, with humidity at 82% falling to 61% later in the day. The forecast shows that the wind direction is likely to be from the South East. In the afternoon and evening there may be some local flooding, especially as the heat wave is expected to break. Thunderstorms can then blight the roads. Flash floods are not ruled out.

A spokesperson for the Met Office said: “ It is unlikely that Darlington will reach the heat wave threshold, for this to happen temperatures have to be over 28 degrees for two consecutive days, with fluctuations of 15 degrees and above. It is going to remain humid and very warm though. Still a 40% chance is not that far off 50% and for this reason caution is needed.”

Heat stroke is a serious health issue. It occurs when the body temperature rises above 40 degrees Celsius, and is best avoided by taking appropriate action. Keeping cool, staying in the shade and drinking plenty of fluids, especially water and juice, may help ally symptoms. Most homes have one room less hot than the others and a cold water supply for use as a body splash over, if temperatures become unbearable.

Exhaustion, dizziness, nausea, heavy sweating, rapid breathing, headache, confusion, and lethargy, suggest that urgent treatment is needed. Seek medical help for chest pains, breathlessness and cramps. For further advice contact NHS Direct on 0845 4647.

According to The NHS Heat Wave Advice Document: “There is a linear relationship between temperature and weekly mortality.” In 2006 there were 75 additional deaths per week for every degree rise in temperature. Now is the time to look out for neighbours, who may need help.