Brits urged to close curtains and blinds on Friday

Brits have been warned that closing their curtains and blinds could limit the effects of hot temperatures this Friday. According to the Met Office, temperatures are set to increase significantly this week, with Friday set to see highs of 29C.

Such temperatures would make it the hottest day of the year so far and would come on the back of highs of 27C on Wednesday and Thursday. Met Office Deputy Chief Meteorologist, Mike Silverstone believes that the sharp rise in temperatures could see the UK reach heatwave thresholds in some parts of the country. He said: “As temperatures rise this week, it is possible heatwave thresholds could be reached in some parts of the UK, particularly the northwest Midlands, northwest England and northeast Wales, however it is very dependent on cloud cover later this week, so it is not a certainty.

“This warm spell will feel different to the fine weather we experienced in May as the humidity will be much higher, making it feel more uncomfortable.

“Additionally, while in May the nights were still fairly cool, overnight temperatures this week are forecast to remain fairly warm, which can disrupt people’s sleep.”

There is help for those set to struggle with warmer temperatures, with the Red Cross having issued guidance on how to cope during periods of high temperatures.

According to their advice, closing curtains and blinds could limit the impact of hot weather and help to cool your house.

They said: “Even with the windows closed, sun shining through the glass can warm your home up quickly.

“Make sure to cover windows during the day to protect from direct sunlight like blinds, curtains, or external shutters.

“If you don’t have anything to block out the sun, hanging a bed sheet or towel should have a similar effect.”

A Met Office forecast for the end of the week said: “Turning increasingly warm and humid, and feeling hot in the south. Plenty of dry and fine weather, but thundery showers will likely move northwards during Thursday and later on Friday.”

The agency warns that the increase temperatures could usher in a period of “fresher and generally more settled conditions spreading east across the UK.”

They said: “The south is forecast to become more settled with temperatures a little above average while northern parts of the UK, especially the northwest, are likely to be more changeable, with spells of stronger winds, cloud and some rain at times.”