PEOPLE in Gloucestershire have been advised to stay indoors after forecasters have warned that much of the country would be hotter than Barbados during a two day heat wave.
The Met Office issued a Level Two alert, triggered when temperatures are predicted to reach between 28C and 32C today and tomorrow. Temperatures are predicated not to dip below 15C and 18C at night.
Public health officials said they were particularly concerned about Muslims fasting for Ramadan.
Hospitals and care homes have been put on alert for an increase in admissions with health and social services staff on standby to contact the ill and vulnerable.
Dr Paul Cosford, of Public Health England, told the Daily Telegraph: "While many people enjoy hot weather, high temperatures can be dangerous, especially for people who may be particularly vulnerable, such as older people, young children and those with serious illnesses.
"Many members of the Muslim community may be fasting during the current period of Ramadan. During hot weather it's important to balance food and fluid intake between fasts and especially to drink enough water."
The heatwave period is expected to begin on Thursday and temperatures are forecast to climb to about 89F (32C) by Friday.
Records show 300 people were killed by a four-day heatwave which peaked at 32C in July 2009.
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