Police urge people not to call them about hosepipe rulebreakers as third heatwave of summer set to peak at 34C
Hosepipe bans to health alerts: UK braces for hottest weekend of the year
- Temperatures reached 34.7C on Friday, with similar or higher temperatures forecast for Saturday, making it potentially the hottest weekend of the year.
- Amber heat health alerts are active for the Midlands, southern, and eastern England until Monday, warning of a potential rise in deaths, particularly among vulnerable groups.
- Hosepipe bans have been implemented across parts of England, affecting nearly seven million people, due to drought conditions and water shortages, with fines up to £1,000 for non-compliance.
- Police have advised the public not to report hosepipe ban rule-breakers to them, directing them instead to water companies to avoid diverting emergency call handlers.
- Authorities, including fire chiefs, HM Coastguard, and the RNLI, have issued warnings about increased risks of wildfires, drowning, and cold water shock, while National Rail anticipates heat-related travel disruption.