The forecast for London has shifted dramatically, with heavy rain and potentially thundery conditions arriving after the recent heat.
After weeks of unusually hot and dry weather, the change might actually feel like a relief. But going from extreme heat to cooler, wetter conditions can take a little getting used to — especially if your body hasn’t quite caught up with the forecast.
Your body needs to adjust too
We don’t always think about weather as something that affects our health beyond getting sunburnt or caught in the rain.
But temperature, humidity and changes in our daily routine can all influence how we feel.
After a period of very hot weather, you might notice that you’re:
- Feeling more tired than usual
- Sleeping differently
- Getting headaches
- Feeling a little dehydrated
- Finding it harder to get back into your normal routine
And if you’ve spent the last few weeks drinking considerably more water, staying indoors during the hottest part of the day and avoiding exercise in the heat, suddenly cooler weather can feel like a completely different season.
Cooler weather doesn’t mean you can forget about hydration. Your body still needs plenty of fluids.
Yes, you still need to drink water
Just because the sun has disappeared doesn’t mean your water bottle should.
You may not feel as thirsty when it’s cooler, but hydration is still important. If you’ve been out walking, exercising or simply spending a lot of time travelling around London, remember to keep drinking regularly.
Your body doesn’t only need water when it’s 30°C outside.
And then there’s the rain…
London rain has a special talent for appearing approximately three minutes after you’ve decided you don’t need an umbrella.
If you’re heading out, particularly for a long walk or commute, it’s worth checking the forecast before you leave.
Wet weather can also mean slippery pavements, reduced visibility for drivers and cyclists, and more opportunities for those annoying little trips and falls.
So, perhaps leave the heroic sprint across the road to avoid the puddle for another day.
What about the sudden temperature change?
A change in temperature doesn’t automatically make you ill.
However, the combination of changing weather, disrupted sleep, seasonal allergies and spending more time indoors can sometimes leave people feeling a little run down.
If you’re experiencing symptoms such as a persistent cough, fever, significant breathlessness or symptoms that aren’t improving, don’t simply blame the weather.
Sometimes you’re actually unwell.
You can still go outside in the rain, just remember your waterproof.
Rain isn’t all bad
After such a dry summer, the rain may actually be welcome.
The Met Office has described the recent shift as a significant change from the prolonged heat and dry conditions experienced across much of England and Wales. The rainfall may provide some relief, although it won’t immediately undo the rainfall deficit built up over the summer.
And for the rest of us?
It means slightly cooler bedrooms, fewer arguments with the fan and a perfectly reasonable excuse to stay indoors with a cup of tea.
So, what should you do?
Keep hydrated. Check the forecast. Take a jacket. Get some sleep. And if you’ve been feeling unwell, don’t assume it’s simply because London has decided to change seasons overnight.
Most importantly, enjoy the change of pace.
After the heat we’ve had, a rainy afternoon doesn’t sound quite so bad.
Until you forget your umbrella, of course.