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Sun and heat in Preston

Thermometer and a hot sun

During the summer period weather can get very hot an unpredictable.

A heat wave is a prolonged period of excessively hot weather, which may be accompanied by high humidity. Heatwaves can be dangerous, especially for the very young, very old or those with chronic diseases.

Tips for coping during hot weather:

  • Avoid the heat: stay out of the sun and don’t go out between 11.00am and 3.00pm (the hottest part of the day) if you’re vulnerable to the effects of heat.
  • Shut windows and pull down the shades when it is hotter outside. If it’s safe, open them for ventilation when it is cooler.
  • When you do go outside make sure you wear suncream (at least sun protection factor SPF 15). Sunglasses protect your eyes and a wide brimmed hat can keep you cool.
  • Keep rooms cool by using shades or reflective material outside the windows. If this isn't possible, use light-coloured curtains and keep them closed (metallic blinds and dark curtains can make the room hotter).
  • Have cool baths or showers, and splash yourself with cool water.
  • Drink cold drinks regularly, such as water and fruit juice. Avoid tea, coffee and alcohol.
  • Stay tuned to the weather forecast on the radio or TV, or at the Met Office website.
  • Plan ahead to make sure you have enough supplies, such as food, water and any medications you need.
  • Identify the coolest room in the house so you know where to go to keep cool.
  • Wear loose, cool clothing, and a hat if you go outdoors.
  • If there is anyone you know who might be at special risk, for example an older person living on their own, make sure they know what to do.
Weather symbols

See the NHS choices website for more summer health advice, including health guides to festivals, going abroad, insect bites and stings and hay fever.

See our page on water conservation to help you save water during the dry months.

Snow and ice in Preston

Lancashire County Council's gritting crews are continuing to work round the clock to plough and grit the roads and keep main routes open.

Gritter lorry

The winter season usually lasts from November to March. Precautionary gritting (salting) is carried out at carefully judged times before freezing occurs to prevent frost and ice forming on road surfaces. If snow accumulates then snow ploughs are sometimes used to clear roads prior to gritting. Precautionary salting is usually carried out during the evening or in the early morning preceded by an inspection in marginal conditions. In periods of severe weather additional gritters and snow blowers can be mobilised.

To find out up to date information on traffic and public transport the BBC Radio Lancashire website is updated every three minutes with traffic and transport news.

Keeping warm and well

For advice on keeping warm and well this winter see the Direct Gov Warm and Well pages. This includes looking after yourself, keeping your home warm and downloadable guides for the over 60's, families and people with disabilities and long term health problems.

Severe weather in Preston

Severe weather can cause problems on the roads which can lead to delays in journey and delivery times, as well as causing problems for road-based council services such as rubbish collection.

Weather can also cause problems for public transport such as trains and buses.

Lancashire County Council is the main authority for roads and highways in Preston. They manage services such as road gritting and general highway maintenance.

If you become at risk of flooding the Environment Agency are the main authority for help and assistance. See our flooding page for more information.

The best way to prepare for severe weather is to keep informed on Met Office updates. These can be checked via the Met Office website.

Most importantly, during severe weather conditions don't take risks, take care!

Met Office weather warnings for the North West


Date Updated: 01/07/10