The Met Office has issued extreme heat warnings for Thursday 11 August – Sunday 14 August. An amber heat warning covers parts of England and Wales; with Bath and the region included. Please do check the forecast for the latest updates.

The prolonged period of hot summer weather may also last further into next week. Whilst sunny weather may be enjoyable for many, it is important to take extra care in the heat and sun to stay well.

Should staff and postgraduate students wish to find working spaces which are cooler, 10E, the new School of Management building, is now operational. The new building is well-ventilated and has a large communal space on Level 0 called the Pavilion with a café where staff can buy refreshments.

As we are outside term time, there is also plenty of space in the Library, which is 'comfort cooled', for colleagues who are able to hotdesk. Colleagues who will be working outside, such as some Campus Services and Campus Infrastructure colleagues, will be given specific advice and any necessary equipment.

The Westwood Nursery is planning to open all day on Thursday and Friday and has air conditioning in place for those days. The Nursery team will continue to monitor the situation each day; if the position were to change, they will update parents directly.

We are keeping the forecast under review and, if weather conditions change significantly, we will post a further communication using the following channels:

Some tips to stay safe in the heat:

  • Try to keep out of the sun between 11am and 3pm, when the UV rays are strongest.

  • Avoid physical exertion in the hottest parts of the day.

  • Drink plenty of fluids and avoid excess alcohol.

  • Walk in the shade, apply sunscreen and wear a wide-brimmed hat, if you have to go out in the heat.

  • Make sure you take water with you, if you are travelling.

  • Stay cool indoors: Close curtains on rooms that face the sun to keep indoor spaces cooler and remember it may be cooler outdoors than indoors.

  • Open water swimming is popular amongst our students and staff. If you do go into open water to cool down, please take care and follow local safety advice.

  • Wear loose clothing where possible.

  • If you have a chronic medical condition and / or take regular medications, be mindful of the effect the heat may have on you and seek medical advice if you feel you need to.

  • Look out for others - the elderly, people with underlying health conditions and those who live alone are particularly at risk.

For further advice, please see these helpful websites: