'Be sensible,' say Doncaster fire chiefs as fresh heatwave warning is issued

The Met Office has issued an amber warning of extreme heat for Doncaster and northern England from Thursday and into the weekend, with temperatures tipped to reach 31c.

And while temperatures will not reach the record-breaking 40.1c seen in Doncaster last month, South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service chiefs are calling on people to take care in a bid to prevent a repeat of devastating wildfires which swept across the county as temperatures soared.

A spokesman said: “We're heading for another heatwave and we need your help.

"Leave the disposable BBQs at home, no campfires and absolutely no garden bonfires.

"Take your litter home with you. Dispose of cigarettes carefully. Please be sensible.”

In mid July, fire crews were stretched to the limit as tinder-dry fields caught fire as temperatures soared to a record-breaking 40.1c – almost five degrees higher than the previous record for Doncaster set in 1990 when temperatures hit 35.5c.

The Met Office has issued the amber warning from midnight on Thursday to midnight on Sunday.

A spokesman said: “A hot spell will develop across parts of England and Wales later this week.

“Adverse health effects are likely to be experienced by those vulnerable to extreme heat

“The wider population are likely to experience some adverse health effects including sunburn or heat exhaustion (dehydration, nausea, fatigue) and other heat related illnesses

“Some changes in working practices and daily routines likely to be required

“An increased chance that some heat-sensitive systems and equipment may fail.

“More people are likely to visit coastal areas, lakes, rivers and other beauty spots leading to an increased risk of water safety and fire-related incidents.

“Some delays to road, rail and air travel are possible, with potential for welfare issues for those who experience prolonged delays.”

The prolonged spell of dry and hot weather has seen hosepipe bans introduced in some parts of the country, although Doncaster has not yet been handed restrictions.

Forecasters say next week may see thunderstorms and cooler temperatures across much of England and Wales.