London weather: 32C heatwave to hit capital as Wimbledon begins

 
Festival goers strip down at British Summer Time Hyde Park festival, in Hyde Park
PA
Ramzy Alwakeel30 June 2015

The capital is readying itself for the year's biggest heatwave so far, with temperatures soaring to 32C as Wimbledon gets under way.

A level 2 alert is in place across London and much of England for the beginning of the week, meaning a heatwave is 80 per cent likely between tomorrow lunchtime and Thursday morning.

The Met Office predicts clear skies and highs of 29C for London on Tuesday, while the mercury is expected to hit 32C the following day.

The hot weather has sparked health warnings for youngsters, elderly people and people with chronic conditions.

"Heatwaves can be dangerous, especially for the very young or very old or those with chronic disease," the Met Office warned.

"Temperatures are expected to build on Tuesday and into Wednesday, with the hottest day of the year so far expected on successive days.

"The highest maximum temperature is expected on Wednesday."

Scorcher: The Palace of Westminster reflected in a woman's sunglasses (Picture: PA)
PA

A spokesman added "warm and humid" nights were expected leading up to Thursday.

The government has also issued air pollution warnings, with the south-east expecting pollution ranking between levels 4 and 6 out of a possible 10, meaning the warning is "moderate".

Water coolers have been installed at TfL's river piers, while Tube passengers are being advised to carry drinks with them.

First aid charity St John Ambulance has warned people to be on the lookout for heat stroke and heat exhaustion.

"Extreme heat can be dangerous, particularly for the very young and old, but by being prepared you can spot the early warning signs and potentially be the difference between life and death in an emergency," said training officer Clive James.

"Apply sun cream, cover up and stay hydrated, as you are then more likely to enjoy the high temperatures without incident."

Police have powers to break into cars if they see pets left in sweltering conditions.

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