UK households told to 'stay indoors' for four hours on Sunday as temperatures soar

Brits are bracing for a scorching Sunday with temperatures set to soar, prompting the to suggest staying indoors during peak heat hours. The forecast predicts London and will bask in highs of 26C, while Liverpool and Birmingham are not far behind at 25C, and Leeds will see a warm 24C.

The upcoming week's is expected to hit its peak on Sunday before the mercury begins to dip from Monday. and weather boffins warn that UV rays are most intense between 11am and 3pm, which could lead to heat exhaustion or other heat-related maladies.

To beat the heat, experts recommend keeping windows shut throughout the day and flinging them open after dusk to let in the cooler night air. But if you are venturing outside to enjoy the sun the NHS has issued some advice.

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The has issued advice for those venturing out: "If you have to go outside, stay in the shade especially between 11am and 3pm, wear sunscreen, a hat and light clothes, and avoid exercise or activity that makes you hotter."

They also suggest: "Close windows during the day and open them at night when the temperature outside has gone down. Electric fans can help if the temperature is below 35 degrees. Check the temperature of rooms, especially where people at higher risk live and sleep.", reports .

In addition to closing windows, it's wise to shield them with blinds, curtains, or external shutters to keep the heat at bay. The British Red Cross Society has issued advice saying: "If you don't have anything to block out the sun, hanging a bed sheet or towel should have a similar effect."

Heat exhaustion isn't typically an emergency situation provided you can cool down within half an hour. However, if it escalates to heatstroke, then it's time to treat it as urgent. In instances of heat exhaustion, NHS guidelines recommend getting the individual to a shaded area, encouraging them to strip down any nonessential layers like jackets or socks. They should be given rehydration solutions such as sports drinks or simply chilled water. Additionally, cooling their skin is important – think spritzing with water or using a wet sponge, and don't forget to fan them.

Applying cold packs wrapped in fabric to areas like the armpits or neck can also provide relief.

England is currently experiencing its driest start to spring in 69 years - and this week the Environment Agency urged water companies to do more to safeguard water supplies, raising the risk of a drought this summer to 'medium'. It followed a National Drought Group meeting between the agency and the Met Office, representatives of the government, regulators, water companies, farmers and conservation experts.

In a statement, the Environment Agency (EA) said: "If the prolonged dry weather continues, water companies may need to implement their dry weather plans in the weeks and months ahead". Bookies have already slashed odds on this May being the hottest on record, with Ladbrokes now putting it at 5/4 - down from 3/1 last week.