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A climate scientist from Swansea University has warned that Wales is “absolutely not prepared” for the impact of the intense heatwave currently striking the country. Mary Gagen described the red heat warning, which covers Wednesday and Thursday, as “frightening,” emphasizing the unprecedented nature of this extreme weather. Forecasts predict temperatures reaching up to 37°C, prompting closures of over 500 schools in regions such as Blaenau Gwent, Caerphilly, and Bridgend.
Gagen highlighted that while heatwaves are not new to Wales, the current events stand out due to their severity and frequency. She pointed out the strain this places on infrastructure, which is ill-equipped to cope with such conditions. Welsh government deputy minister Nerys Evans echoed the seriousness of the situation, declaring it a “heat emergency.” Gagen further noted how unusual it is to experience back-to-back heatwaves, explaining, “Actually, for me on a personal level, as I’m walking around, it feels like the first time in my life that I can physically feel climate change. And it’s quite frightening, actually. It’s an uncomfortable experience.” She also mentioned the “heat dome” effect, which will contribute to “tropical nights,” demonstrating how climate change intensifies these heat events.
Public services and healthcare are facing significant challenges amid the heat. Schools are closed across many Welsh locales, including Cardiff, Carmarthenshire, Merthyr Tydfil, and Swansea, among others. Isabel Oliver, Chief Medical Officer for Wales, spoke on Radio Wales Breakfast about the predictable yet serious pressure heatwaves place on the NHS. She urged the public to stay informed and take precautions, especially by avoiding alcohol and supporting vulnerable individuals. She advised, “If people are feeling the effects of heat exhaustion which is tiredness, dizziness, headaches feeling sick it is really important that they move to a cool place, remove unnecessary clothing such as jackets or socks.” Transport for Wales also announced cancellations on services between Llandudno Junction and Blaenau Ffestiniog due to severe weather, arranging replacement road transport.
In care homes, efforts are underway to safeguard vulnerable residents from the heat. Beverley Holt, deputy manager at Cartref Dyfi in Machynlleth, discussed adjustments such as changing menus, limiting activities, and keeping rooms cool by drawing curtains. Residents have shared their experiences, with Lois Burke, aged 90, likening the weather to the Caribbean but expressing a preference for cooler conditions. Another elderly resident, Sally, 86, managed to stay active by resting with windows open and staying hydrated, reflecting on how “climate change is starting to rule our lives.”
Nerys Evans reiterated the gravity of the heat emergency during an interview on BBC Radio Wales Drive, noting that the healthcare system will encounter “extra demand” in the coming days. She stressed the importance of hydration, sun avoidance, and particularly vigilant care for those who cannot regulate their body temperature effectively. Public Health Wales issued a broad safety appeal, encouraging people to check on others, especially those working outdoors, residing in top-floor apartments, or exposed to prolonged heat. The red warning is in effect from 09:00 BST Wednesday to 21:00 Thursday, covering numerous Welsh counties and neighboring areas of England. Meanwhile, an amber warning spans the entire country for both days. The heatwave has already disrupted daily life, causing closures—including that of a historic bridge—and affecting public services across Wales
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