With temperatures soaring to over 40C in the UK and Europe during a second June heatwave, the Met Office has issued a rare red alert for Wednesday and Thursday across parts of the nation, signalling hazardous conditions with a significant risk to life. The blistering heat has prompted a new trend – the 'cool-cation' – as holidaymakers seek destinations where the sun shines but the mercury stays sensible. Lisa Minot, writing for The Sun, suggests six European escapes that avoid the extreme temperatures, including Portugal's Costa Verde, where Atlantic breezes keep things cooler than the Algarve, and Sweden's Malmö, where summer temperatures typically range from 20C to 23C.
Back home, debate has emerged over how to keep houses cool. Experts at SCI Windows advise: “Open the windows if house temperature is greater than outside temperature. Otherwise keep them closed to keep the cool air inside, as long as possible.” They recommend opening windows overnight and early morning to let air circulate. Alan Reid, windows expert at Art Windows and Doors, told the Manchester Evening News that homeowners should begin opening windows at 8pm when outdoor temperatures fall, while John Small, owner of Ty Eco, suggests closing them around 9am when temperatures start climbing again. Dr Ben Roberts, a building performance specialist at Loughborough University, noted: “With overheating, it's a simple heat balance problem.” Contemporary UK double-glazing often includes a night vent lock, allowing windows to be secured slightly ajar for safe overnight cooling.
“UK faces 40C heatwave prompting 'cool-cation' trend and expert advice on window opening times.”