A little context with the 1976 comparisons. I was 13 - I remember it well and have detailed records. The primary factor was the lack of rainfall and drought conditions prompted special measures by the middle of July. The heat peaked early July with 35.9C in Cheltenham on the 3rd. I lived near Portsmouth and yes it was hot at times with many days exceeding 30C (but rarely above 33C) but with low humidity most of the time it was liveable. Most of the Summer holidays spent exploring the countryside, river swimming, etc and watering the plants with bath water.
The forecast heat Mon/Tues, however short-lived, is a factor above anything 1976 delivered and will cause problems. Once the air temp exceeds body temp there is a sudden depreciation in your body’s ability to keep cool and heat stroke becomes a much bigger problem.
Originally Posted by: nsrobins