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How to Stay Cool in This Heat!

As Somerset sizzles under record-breaking temperatures, it's clear that our natural world is changing.

Just like the rest of the UK, we're feeling the heat of the climate crisis right here in Somerset. So here are some helpful tips on staying cool and comfortable during these scorching days.

Tips for beating the heat

  • Stay hydrated! Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
  • Close curtains and blinds during the day to keep the sun out.
  • Use fans to circulate air - place a bowl of ice in front of the fan for extra cooling.
  • Wear loose, light-colored clothing.
  • Take cool showers or baths.
  • Avoid using the oven - opt for cool meals or use the microwave.
  • If you must go out, seek shade and wear a hat and sunscreen.
Wear pale clothes, a sunhat and sunscreen in hot weather

Somerset's Changing Climate

It's not just you - Somerset really is getting hotter. The Met Office data paints a clear picture: our summer temperatures have jumped by about 1.5°C since the 1960s. In 2022, we saw record-breaking temperatures of 35.9°C in Yeovilton!

But it's not just about the heat. Our rainfall patterns are changing too. While we're getting more intense downpours, overall summer rainfall has decreased by about 15% compared to 50 years ago.

Nature Needs Us, What Can We Do?

The good news? We're not powerless in the face of these changes. Here are some ways we can adapt and help our local wildlife at the same time:

  • Shutters and external blinds: They're not just for looks - they're nature's air con!
  • Plant trees for shade: Cool your home and create habitats in one go. It's a win-win for us and local wildlife.
  • Create a rain garden: Manage those heavy downpours and invite in a host of interesting insects and amphibians.
  • Water-saving devices: Every drop counts for us and for nature.
  • Speak up about climate change: Talking to friends, family, and local representatives about climate issues. Your voice matters in shaping Somerset's future.
  • Get involved: Join Team Wider or a local climate action group.

Whether it's planting a tree, installing a water butt, or speaking up about climate change, every action counts. Together, we can keep Somerset cool, green, and thriving for generations to come.

Find out more

Waterbutt in a garden

Install rain gardens and water butts in your garden and community greenspaces Maintaining a source of water for gardens during hotter, drier summers will be important to keep plants healthy and support wildlife. Installing water butts under drainpipes on buildings will collect and store water year-round. This can be used to water gardens during dry spells, reducing pressure on mains supplies.

A rainchain in a garden

Rain chains direct rain water from the roof and gutters and channel it to where it is most needed in the garden. A rain chain can divert rain water to a water butt, into a bed of moisture-loving plants, or to the ground where it can be used to replenish the water table as a sustainable rainwater harvesting method.

Rain garden

Water butt overspills can be connected to rain gardens, which are designed to cope with large downpours. This takes pressure off drainage networks and reduces surface runoff. Image: Rain gardens / RHS Gardening

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