Tuesday, July 4 2006 12:08 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

London: With temperatures soaring by the day, the British government has issued a heat wave alert and has cautioned the elderly, young and those with chronic diseases to take extra precautions.

The rising mercury nearly 43 degrees Celsius has delighted most Britons keen to acquire a tan by sunbathing, but it also poses serious problems for the elderly and the young. Every year, Britain and other countries in Europe report several deaths due to heat wave conditions.

In August 2003, nearly 27,000 people had died of heat-related causes in northwest Europe. This included 11,000 deaths in France and 2,000 in Britain.

The weatherman has predicted unrelenting sun this week. The department of health has warned of 'significant health risks.

In advice to medical professionals, the department said babies and children, elderly people and those with chronic diseases should take steps to prevent dehydration.

The hot weather is forecast to last till Wednesday when the met office says there will be thundershowers.