BBC News: Major Incident Declared in London Today - Latest Updates

London is facing a major incident today as unprecedented heat grips the UK. The Met Office has issued a red extreme heat warning, with temperatures expected to break records. This extreme weather is putting a significant strain on public services and posing serious risks to vulnerable populations. We'll be bringing you the latest updates and advice on how to stay safe during this challenging period.

Key Takeaways

• A major incident has been declared in London due to extreme heat, with the Met Office issuing a rare red warning.

• Temperatures are soaring across the UK, with record-breaking heat expected throughout the day.

• Homeless charities are providing vital support to those sleeping rough, who are particularly at risk of heat-related harm, with reports of blistered skin.

• Hospitals are struggling with the extreme temperatures, especially older buildings lacking air conditioning, leading to increased admissions.

• The current heatwave is attributed to a warm air mass from Spain, causing evenings to remain unusually hot and potentially leading to record overnight temperatures.

Major Incident Declared Amidst Unprecedented Heatwave

<h2 id="major-incident-declared-amidst-unprecedented-heatwave">Major Incident Declared Amidst Unprecedented Heatwave</h2>

<p>Well, it's certainly not your average summer day out there. We've officially hit a 'major incident' status across London today as the heatwave really cranks up the intensity. It’s the kind of weather that makes you question if you've accidentally booked a flight to the Mediterranean without telling anyone. The Met Office has been pretty clear about this – it's serious business.</p>

<h3 id="met-office-issues-red-extreme-heat-warning">Met Office Issues Red Extreme Heat Warning</h3>

<p>For the first time ever, the Met Office has slapped a 'Red Extreme Heat' warning on large parts of England. This isn't just a bit of warm weather; it's a signal that dangerous conditions are expected. They're urging everyone to take action to stay safe. It’s a bit like a severe weather alert, but for heat, and it means we really need to pay attention.</p>

<h3 id="temperatures-soar-across-the-uk">Temperatures Soar Across The UK</h3>

<p>We're seeing temperatures climb to levels that are frankly unheard of for the UK. While the focus is often on the headline-grabbing highs, it's worth remembering that even temperatures like 36C in Hull or 38C in Birmingham are way outside the norm for mid-July. It’s a stark reminder of how much our climate has shifted. In fact, nine out of the ten hottest days on record have happened since 1990, which really puts things into perspective.</p>

<blockquote> <p>The infrastructure we rely on, from transport networks to our buildings, simply wasn't designed to cope with this level of heat. Our bodies, too, are not accustomed to such extreme temperatures, making the risks to health and daily life significantly higher.</p> </blockquote>

<h3 id="record-breaking-heat-expected-today">Record-Breaking Heat Expected Today</h3>

<p>Forecasters are talking about the possibility of hitting 40C, and maybe even more, in some areas. This could shatter previous records, which were set at 38.7C back in 2019. A jump of 2C or more would be a massive leap. Looking back, it’s quite something: in 1922, the maximum temperature on this date was just 19.9C. Even 50 years ago, it was a much more manageable 24.5C. This kind of heat is a clear sign of changes in the UK's climate.</p>

Impacts On London's Most Vulnerable

Homeless Charities Offer Vital Support

Charities working with people sleeping rough have been out since early this morning, trying to get help to those on the streets. They're particularly worried about people in tents and have been offering showers and a place to shelter from the intense heat across London. It's a tough situation out there, and these groups are doing what they can.

Concerns For Those Sleeping Rough

Sleeping on the streets is risky at any time of year, but during this extreme heatwave, it can become a real danger. Outreach teams have reported seeing many individuals struggling badly. Some people have developed blistered skin from the sun, and most are desperate to find somewhere cool and shaded to get a break from the relentless heat. It's a stark reminder that not everyone has a safe place to escape the weather.

Blistered Skin Reported Due To Heat

The high temperatures are having a visible and painful effect on some of the most exposed members of our community. Reports from street outreach workers indicate that individuals without adequate shelter are suffering from sunburn and blistering. This is a serious concern, as it can lead to infection and further health complications, especially when access to medical care is limited. The immediate need is for shade, water, and a cool place to rest.

Strain On Public Services

Hospitals Struggle With Extreme Temperatures

It's getting really tough for our hospitals right now. Many of the buildings, especially the older ones, weren't built with modern cooling in mind, and some don't have air conditioning at all. You can imagine how that feels when the outside temperature is soaring. Staff are doing their best, but it's a real challenge to keep both patients and themselves comfortable when the wards are getting so hot. Extra shifts are being asked of people because the expectation is that more patients will need care due to the heat.

Lack Of Air Conditioning In Older Hospitals

This is a big problem, isn't it? We're talking about buildings that were around even before the NHS was founded back in 1948. They just weren't designed for this kind of weather. In places like St Helier hospital in south-west London, temperatures inside are already hitting over 30C. It makes you wonder how healthcare can be delivered effectively when the environment itself is working against you. It's not ideal, to say the least.

Increased Admissions Expected

With the extreme heat, health professionals are bracing themselves for a rise in people needing medical attention. This isn't just about heatstroke, though that's a serious concern. Existing health conditions can be made much worse by high temperatures, and we're seeing more people struggling with dehydration and other heat-related issues. It puts a massive strain on already busy services.

Here's a quick look at some of the measures being taken:

• Hospitals are restricting visiting hours in some areas, often only allowing visitors after 6pm when it's cooler.

• Staff are being asked to work extra hours to cope with the anticipated increase in patients.

• Efforts are being made to cool down wards, but the lack of air conditioning in older buildings is a significant hurdle.

The current infrastructure in many public buildings, including hospitals, is simply not equipped to handle prolonged periods of extreme heat. This poses a direct risk to patient care and staff well-being, highlighting a need for urgent adaptation and investment in climate resilience.

What You Can Do To Stay Cool

If you're feeling the heat, there are a few simple things that can help:

• Drink plenty of water: Staying hydrated is key. Keep a bottle with you and sip regularly.

• Cool your skin: Using a damp cloth, a cool sponge, or even a water spray can make a big difference. Cold packs on your neck or armpits can also provide relief.

• Seek shade or cooler environments: If you can, spend time in the coolest parts of your home or find public spaces that are air-conditioned. For those sleeping rough, charities are working to provide access to shelter.

It's important to listen to your body and take breaks when you need them. Don't push yourself too hard in this weather.

Understanding The Extreme Weather

It's pretty wild out there right now, isn't it? We're seeing temperatures that most of us have never experienced in the UK before. This isn't just a slightly warmer than usual summer day; this is something else entirely. The Met Office has even issued a red extreme heat warning, which they've never done before, for large parts of England. This means the weather is expected to be dangerous, and we really need to take care.

Why Evenings Are Remaining Hot

One of the strangest things for many people is how the heat just doesn't seem to go away, even after the sun sets. This is because a really warm air mass has been pushed up from Spain. Think of it like a big blanket of hot air settling over us. The temperature high up in the atmosphere, about 1.5km up, is expected to stay high until late in the evening. This is why the nights aren't cooling down much, and we might even see new records for overnight temperatures. It's quite a change from what we're used to.

Air Mass Pushing Up From Spain

So, what exactly is this air mass? Well, it's a large body of air that has travelled a long way and picked up heat and moisture. When this very warm air from the continent moves over the UK, it brings these extreme temperatures with it. It's a significant factor in why we're experiencing such a severe heatwave. This kind of weather pattern isn't typical for the UK, which is why our infrastructure and our bodies aren't really prepared for it. Experts have warned that the UK must prepare for increasingly frequent and severe heatwaves, with these extreme weather events expected to become the new normal. prepare for heatwaves

Potential For Record Overnight Temperatures

As mentioned, the lack of cooling overnight is a major concern. Normally, temperatures drop significantly after sunset, giving us a chance to recover. But with this persistent warm air, that relief is minimal. This means the cumulative effect of the heat on our bodies and on everything around us is much greater. We're talking about the possibility of breaking records not just for daytime highs, but also for how warm the nights stay. It's a situation that requires us all to be extra vigilant about staying safe and cool, especially during the night.

Location	Previous Record (July 18th)	Current High (July 18th)
UK All-time	38.7°C (2019)	Potentially >40°C
Wales	35.2°C (1990)	35.3°C (Provisional)
London Area	~36°C	~37°C

Advice For Coping With The Heat

Right then, it's boiling out there, isn't it? We're all feeling it, and frankly, it's a bit much. The main thing is to try and keep yourself from overheating. Staying hydrated is absolutely key, so keep that water bottle topped up.

Cooling Your Body Down Effectively

It's not just about drinking, though. You need to cool your skin down too. Evaporation is your friend here. Try using a cool, damp sponge or a flannel. A quick spritz from a water bottle can feel amazing too. If you've got any cold packs, pop them on your neck or under your arms – anywhere that feels good, really. Don't overthink it, just do what helps you feel a bit more comfortable.

Staying Hydrated Is Crucial

Seriously, drink more water than you think you need. It sounds simple, but it's easy to forget when you're just trying to get through the day. Keep a big bottle with you and sip it regularly. If you're out and about, look for places where you can refill it.

Tips For Keeping Cool In The Sun

When you're outside, try to find shade whenever you can. If you're at home, keep the curtains and blinds closed during the hottest parts of the day, but make sure the rooms still get some air. Fans can help, but they're not a miracle cure. If you're feeling really rough, a cool shower or bath can make a big difference. And maybe avoid doing any strenuous exercise when the sun is at its strongest.

This kind of heat isn't something we're used to. Our bodies and our buildings just aren't designed for it. It's important to take it seriously and look after yourself and others, especially those who might be more vulnerable.

Here are a few more ideas:

• Wet a cloth and put it around your neck: It sounds a bit old-fashioned, but it can really help.

• Keep your feet cool: Soaking your feet in a bowl of cool water can be surprisingly effective.

• Eat lighter meals: Heavy food can make you feel hotter. Stick to salads and fruits if you can.

• Check on neighbours: Especially if they're elderly or live alone. A quick call or knock can make a difference.

Broader Implications Of The Heatwave

This isn't just about feeling a bit sticky. The kind of heat we're seeing today is something the UK just isn't built for. Our buildings, our transport systems, even our bodies, aren't really used to this level of warmth. It's a stark reminder that the climate is changing, and we're starting to feel the effects in ways we haven't before.

Infrastructure Not Built For Such Heat

Think about it – most of our buildings, especially older ones, were designed with cooler climates in mind. Many don't have air conditioning, turning offices and homes into ovens. Public transport, like trains, can also be affected. Tracks can warp, and overhead cables can sag, leading to delays and cancellations. It's a real challenge when the weather goes beyond what we've experienced in the past.

Health Risks Associated With High Temperatures

Beyond the immediate discomfort, these extreme temperatures pose serious health risks. Dehydration is a big one, but there's also the danger of heatstroke and other heat-related illnesses, especially for the elderly, young children, and people with existing health conditions. It puts a huge strain on our health services, as hospitals are already seeing more people coming in with heat-related problems.

Comparison To Past Decades' Temperatures

It's pretty eye-opening when you look at the numbers. Records from just a few decades ago show much milder summers. For instance, in 1997, the temperature on this same date was around 20°C. Compare that to today's figures, and you can see how much things have shifted. The top ten hottest days in the UK have mostly happened since 2002, which really highlights the trend.

The speed at which these temperatures are rising is concerning. It means our infrastructure and our understanding of how to cope are constantly playing catch-up. We're seeing a pattern where extreme weather events are becoming more frequent and more intense than in previous generations.

Here's a quick look at how temperatures have changed:

• 1922: Maximum temperature on July 18th was around 19.9°C.

• 1997: Maximum temperature on July 18th was around 20.1°C.

• 2019: Record high temperature reached 38.7°C.

• Today (July 18th, 2025): Forecasts suggest temperatures could exceed 40°C in some areas.

What Happens Next?

Right then, that's all the updates for now on this major incident. It's been a pretty wild day, hasn't it? We've seen temperatures soaring to frankly unbelievable levels, with warnings about the heat affecting everything from our health to how our trains and buses run. It's not just the daytime that's been tough, with the evenings staying uncomfortably warm too. We've also heard about the real struggles faced by those without a roof over their heads, and sadly, the tragic news of a young life lost in the water. As things stand, the advice is still to stay safe and look after yourselves and each other. We'll keep you posted if anything else significant comes up, but for now, it's a case of riding out this extreme weather.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is it so hot in London right now?

London is experiencing extremely high temperatures because a very warm air mass has travelled all the way up from Spain. This hot air is currently sitting over the UK, pushing temperatures to record-breaking levels. Normally, the hottest part of the day is in the late afternoon, but this heat is so intense that it's taking a long time for the air to cool down, even after the sun goes down.

What is a 'Major Incident' and why has it been declared?

A 'Major Incident' means that services like the police, fire brigade, and ambulance are under a lot of pressure. It's been declared because the extreme heat is causing serious problems across London. This includes putting a lot of strain on hospitals, making it dangerous for people sleeping rough, and affecting public transport and other essential services.

How does this extreme heat affect people who are homeless?

For people who don't have a home, this heat is incredibly dangerous. Charities are working hard to help by offering water, sun cream, and places to cool down, like shelters or showers. Some people sleeping rough have even suffered from burnt skin because the heat is so intense. It can be life-threatening for them.

Are hospitals struggling with this heat?

Yes, hospitals are finding it very difficult. Many older hospital buildings don't have air conditioning, so the temperatures inside can get very high, even over 30C. This makes it hard to care for patients and staff. They are expecting more people to need hospital treatment because of the heat, which adds to the pressure.

What are the main dangers of this kind of heatwave?

The biggest dangers are to people's health. The extreme heat can cause serious problems, especially for older people, babies, and those with existing health conditions. It also puts a huge strain on services like the NHS and transport. Our buildings and infrastructure, like roads and railways, aren't built to cope with temperatures this high, which can lead to problems.

How can I stay safe and cool during this heatwave?

It's really important to drink lots of water to avoid getting dehydrated. Try to stay in the coolest place you can, and avoid going out in the sun during the hottest parts of the day. If you feel too hot, using a cool, damp cloth or a spray bottle with water can help cool your skin down. Cold packs on your neck or armpits can also offer relief.