Sun safety warning as heatwave hits the Channel Islands

Sunshine over beach
Temperatures today (7 August) are forecast to reach 33°C in Jersey and 29°C in Guernsey, and are expected to remain high for the next six days. Credit: ITV Channel TV

Islanders are being reminded about the potential health risks associated with hot weather as Jersey Met has forecast a heatwave.

Temperatures today (8 August) are forecast to reach 27°C in Jersey and 24°C in Guernsey, and are expected to remain high for the next five days.

Yesterday (7 August) temperatures peaked at 35.3°C in Jersey and in 32°C Guernsey.

A heatwave is a period of five consecutive days when the daily maximum temperature is 5°C or more above the average. The average temperature at this time of the year is around 22°C. The last time the Island had temperatures this high, for a six-day period, was in July 2006. Although many islanders will welcome the hot weather, the Public Health Department is urging people to keep cool in the heat.

Here are some tips on how to stay safe in the hot weather:

  • Shut windows, pull down the shades or keep the curtains closed to keep your rooms as cool as possible. If it’s safe, open them for ventilation when it is cooler .

  • Avoid overheating: stay out of the sun and don’t go out between 11am and 3pm (the hottest part of the day) if you’re vulnerable to the effects of heat .

  • Don’t get sunburnt – ever – as that increases your risk of developing malignant melanoma (skin cancer) in future years .

  • Have cool baths or showers, and splash yourself with cool water .

  • Drink cold drinks regularly, such as water and fruit juice. Avoid tea, coffee and alcohol .

  • Identify the coolest room in the house so you know where to go to keep cool .

  • Wear loose, cool clothing .

  • Check up on friends, relatives and neighbours who may be less able to look after themselves .

  • Take steps to ensure protection from the sun through the use of sunscreen and hats – such measures are especially important for babies and young children .

  • Be aware that extreme levels of heat can develop in cars and other confined spaces, and avoid leaving children in cars, even for very short periods. This advice also applies to pets.

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