Drivers are being advised to fill up their petrol or diesel vehicles before 8pm on Tuesday, June 23, ahead of expected high temperatures and heat-health alerts. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and the Met Office have issued yellow and amber heat-health warnings across parts of England due to a forecast heatwave, with temperatures predicted to reach up to 34°C.
The AA has urged motorists to prepare thoroughly for travel during the hot weather. Lee Morley, an AA expert patrol officer, emphasized the importance of ensuring vehicles are ready for the heat, saying, “Hot weather can strain vehicles and create uncomfortable conditions for passengers, particularly when stuck in traffic, travelling with children or pets, or parked in direct sunlight.”
Morley advised drivers to avoid traveling during the hottest parts of the day, recommending early morning departures when temperatures and road surfaces are cooler. He also recommended checking tyre pressure, coolant, oil levels, and ensuring sufficient fuel or charge to operate air conditioning, especially if traffic congestion is expected.
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An amber heat-health alert will be in effect until 8pm Tuesday for the East of England, South East, South West, and London, while the West Midlands and East Midlands are under a yellow heat-health alert. Other regions remain unaffected at this time.
Morley also warned against leaving children, elderly, vulnerable passengers, or pets alone inside parked cars, as temperatures can rise dangerously fast. In the event of a breakdown, drivers should move to a safe, shaded area away from traffic to wait for assistance.
For those engaging in outdoor physical activities, it is advised to plan these during cooler parts of the day, such as mornings or evenings, and to monitor weather forecasts for safer conditions.