THE Chronicle's weatherman Jonathan Powell has confirmed that this month's heat wave is set to continue into the weekend with temperatures of between 84 - 87 degrees likely today (Thursday) and tomorrow.

" With Wales already the sunniest place in the UK in July so far, expect plenty of sunshine to match the temperatures.  The weekend sees the heat continue but to a slightly lesser extent," said Jonathan.

"  With the Met Office having issued a Level 3 Warning, these current conditions are not to be taken lightly.  A record high for July could well be set in the next 48 hours across parts of SE Wales,"

"It is advisable to take extreme care during the current warm spell, taking on plenty of fluids, and being mindful of the strong July sunshine.  UV levels currently stand at seven, meaning a sunburn time of around 15 to 20 minutes between 1pm and 5pm  Elderly and young alike will be particularly at risk during this time for heat related issues," he warned

 

With the temperature continuing to hover in the mids 80s Age Cymru is today reminding older people about how to stay cool during hot weather.

 

Rhian Pearce, the charity's Health Initiatives Officer says, "Many of us will be enjoying this spell of hot weather. But with these high temperatures, it's important that older people are ready to deal with effects of the heat on their health and wellbeing.

 "This is why Age Cymru is today issuing some simple hints and tips so that older people and their families can make the most of the good weather."

 Age Cymru's hot weather tips for older people:

 

• Try and plan your day in a way that allows you to stay out of the heat in the hottest part of the day (11am – 3pm);

• If you go out stay in the shade, wear a hat and light loose fitting clothes which are preferably cotton;

• If you are outside for some time, take plenty of fresh drinking water with you as well as a high factor suncream/block;

• Rake cool showers or baths and splash yourself several times a day with cold water, particularly your face and the back of your neck;

• Drink regularly even if you do not feel thirsty - water/fruit juice is best and try to avoid alcohol;

• Try to eat more cold food, particularly salads and fruit, which contain water;

• Close the curtains in rooms that get a lot of sun;

• Open windows when the temperature inside rises, and at night for ventilation;

• If you are worried about security, at least open windows on the first floor and above;

Doctors in Powys are also warning of the dangers of heat exhaustion and heatstroke and warning people to be aware of the symptoms and risks.

The symptoms of heat exhaustion include headaches, dizziness, nausea and vomiting, muscle weakness or cramps, pale skin, and a high temperature.

You should move somewhere cool and drink plenty of water or fruit juice. If you can, take a lukewarm shower, or sponge yourself down with cold water.

Heatstroke can develop if heat exhaustion is left untreated, but it can also occur suddenly and without warning. Symptoms include headaches, nausea, an intense thirst, sleepiness, hot, red and dry skin, a sudden rise in temperature, confusion, aggression, convulsions and loss of consciousness. Heatstroke can result in irreversible damage to your body, including the brain, or death.

The heat can affect anyone, but some people run a greater risk of serious harm.

These include:

• Older people, especially older women and those over 75.

• Babies and young children.

• People with mental health problems.

• People on certain medication.

• People with a serious chronic condition, particularly breathing or heart problems.