Blackpool will swelter in heatwave for another week as water bosses ater bosses make statement on hosepipe ban
As temperatures soar hotter than Indonesia, water bosses have issued a statement on whether a hosepipe ban maybe on the cards.
Blackpool and the Fylde coast will continue to swelter most of next week as the second summer heatwave maintains its fiery grip on the county.
On Friday, the county recorded temperatures higher than those experienced in Jakarta, Indonesia.
Although the mercury us unlikely to hit the heights of today’s 30-31c, temperatures will continue in the late 20s throughout the weekend and until next weekend.
But despite the asphalt melting heat, Lancashire will not suffer the fate of some areas of the country with hosepipe bans and threats of water rationing.
Customers of Affinity Water across Bedfordshire, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Essex, Hertfordshire, Surrey and parts of London will not be able to use hosepipes for watering their garden, washing cars, outdoor areas or windows or filling up swimming or paddling pools.
Meanwhile, Essex and Suffolk Water said it is closely monitoring water resources in Suffolk and preparing for all eventualities, although a hosepipe ban is not currently being introduced.
But in the North West United Utilities said there were no plans to introduce any restrictions on water usage.
A spokesman said: “There are no plans for any restrictions in the North West and our reservoir levels are above average for this time of year.
“Whatever the weather though, we always encourage our customers to use water wisely.”
This week it was revealed that cold water might be one off the few methods of cooling down available to Lancashire residents, with the county having sold out of air conditioning units.
More expensive, non portable, air conditioners are available, starting at £2,500, but cannot be installed immediately and customers may have to wait until temperatures have dropped to get their fix of cool air.
Argos and electrical giant Currys are the main sellers of consumer air conditioners in the UK.
But a check with Argos has revealed that all of their six portable air conditioning units have sold out and are unavailable in Lancashire.
They range from the Bush 6.5l Vortex Blade Cooler, which retails at £85 to Meaco 12l at £500.
However, none are available for collection for customers in Preston and surrounding areas.
Doctors have warned people struggling with the heat to make sure they drink enough water.
People aged over 65, babies and children under five are most at risk from high temperatures as well as pregnant women and anyone with long-standing medical conditions.
The advice is to keep out of the heat if you can. 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.
Cool yourself down. Have cold food and regular cold drinks. Drink extra fluids but avoid alcohol, caffeine and hot drinks, and have a cool shower or put cool water on your skin or clothes.
Keep your living space cool. Close windows, curtains and blinds 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, and make sure to check on anyone who is at higher risk from the heat.