Overview
- The Met Office and multiple outlets warn a new heatwave is likely in southern parts of the UK this week, with forecasts of mid‑30s°C in places such as the South East.
- A two‑minute morning routine — drawing curtains or lowering blinds before the sun warms windows — is widely recommended to prevent solar gain and cut how much heat buildings absorb.
- Keep windows, curtains and blinds closed during the hottest hours and open windows in the evening to create cross‑ventilation when outdoor air is cooler.
- Use extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms to expel warm, humid air, open specific internal doors or the loft hatch to release trapped upstairs heat, and avoid running ovens, tumble dryers or other heat‑producing appliances during peak daytime heat.
- Electric fans only move air and do not lower room temperature so they may be inadequate for older or unwell people; unplugging standby electronics and lights reduces residual heat and saves energy as summers grow hotter over time.