Yorkshire Water: 'Don't risk' swimming in the open water at our reservoirs
It's as temperatures continue to rise in South Yorkshire
With temperatures set to rise above 30 degrees Celsius in South Yorkshire & North Derbyshire this weekend - we’re being urged ‘not to risk’ going in open water.
The ongoing heatwave has led to the UK’s Health Security Agency issuing an amber heat health alert.
This warning means there could be a ‘rise in deaths’ for those with pre-existing health conditions and people aged over 65.
Steve Parsley is from Yorkshire Water - who're responsible for managing 12 reservoirs in South Yorkshire:
"The water in a reservoir is extremely cold - which can send your body into cold water shock.
"That's when your body reacts to the temperature of the water - and it sends blood to your vital organs - such as your brain, your heart, and your lungs.
"Even if you're a good swimmer, you can find yourself in trouble quite quickly.
"There's machinery underneath the waters at the reservoirs, which can create underwater currents - of course this makes it more likely for swimmers to end up accidentally drowning - it's dangerous."
Deputy chief meteorologist Dan Holley said thundery showers may be possible heading into Saturday morning, with "tropical nights" a possibility.