Tag: extreme weather

Hot, dry summer impacts UK butterfly populations

The heatwave and drought of summer 2022 has had a major negative impact on some UK butterfly species, a study has confirmed.

The latest results from the annual UK Butterfly Monitoring Scheme (UKBMS) led by Butterfly Conservation, the UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology (UKCEH), British Trust for Ornithology (BTO) and Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC), show that the extreme weather experienced across much of the UK in the summer of 2022 has had a significant impact on some butterfly species.

The Green-veined White, Small White, Small Tortoiseshell, Peacock and Brimstone, all familiar garden and countryside butterflies, appeared in good or average numbers during the spring and early summer, but numbers in the subsequent generations were greatly reduced following the widespread drought conditions, and scientists fear that there will be similar negative impacts on other butterfly species when they start to emerge in 2023.

Drought impacts the offspring of the butterflies that are flying during the hot dry weather by causing the plants that caterpillars rely on for food to wither and die. Without sufficient food, many caterpillars will fail to survive, leading to lower numbers of butterflies in the next generation.

For some of the UK species that have more than one generation in a year, the resulting major decline in numbers has already been seen. However, for others, the next generation isn’t on the wing until this summer, meaning there could be noticeably fewer butterflies around in 2023.

It’s not the first time butterflies have been affected by drought in the UK. Data gathered by the UKBMS has shown serious negative impacts of droughts on butterflies in 1976 and 1995. Some species have never recovered their former abundance levels after the 1976 drought, although habitat destruction is likely to be a major factor in their failure to bounce back.

The difference in 2022’s drought compared to 1976 is that nowadays most UK butterfly species are already in decline. Butterfly Conservation’s recently published State of the UK’s Butterflies 2022 report revealed that 80% of butterflies have declined in abundance, distribution or both since the 1970s.

With droughts predicted to become more frequent and severe in the UK as climate change continues, some butterfly species may be pushed towards extinction.

Butterfly Conservation’s Head of Science, Dr Richard Fox, said: “Overall, the data for 2022 tells us that it was an average year for butterflies. However, it was a year of two halves with butterflies seen early and in about average total numbers (compared to the last 10 years) from April – July but then in greatly reduced abundance after the summer heatwave and drought.

“In general, warm, sunny weather is good for butterflies as they can be active, finding food, mating and laying eggs. But drought is a major problem as plants wither and die, meaning female butterflies may struggle to find anywhere to lay their eggs, or there is not enough food for the caterpillars when they hatch.

“The knock-on effect is fewer butterflies in the following generation. We have already seen an indication of this in the 2022 data for some of those species with a generation that flies in late summer and autumn, and sadly we can expect to see a decline in numbers of other species in 2023 too.”

The meticulously gathered UKBMS data show that, despite these concerns, 2022 was a good year for some species, including Purple Emperor, Large Blue, Chequered Skipper and Dark Green Fritillary, all of which have been the focus of targeted conservation work over the last few years. However, scientists issued a word of caution, as we have yet to see the result of the drought on these species because the next generation will not emerge until this summer.

There is much work to be done to conserve threatened species of butterfly in the UK, and the UKBMS data helps target those species most in need of conservation work.

Butterfly populations fluctuate naturally from year to year, largely due to the weather, but the long-term trends of UK butterflies are mainly driven by human activity, particularly the deterioration of habitats due to inappropriate management and pollution, and climate change.

Conservation efforts can make a real difference to local populations and working on threatened species in key landscapes to deliver nature recovery is a priority.

Dr Marc Botham, Butterfly Ecologist at the UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, said: “In 2022 we collected data from over 3,000 sites and we are incredibly grateful to the thousands of volunteers who carry out monitoring and maintain this invaluable long-term dataset.

“This enables scientists to measure how butterflies are faring as well as assessing the health of our countryside generally. The UKBMS data are vital in assessing the effectiveness of government policies and progress towards the UK’s biodiversity targets.”

Nature Minister Trudy Harrison said: “Our beautiful butterflies are at risk from a changing climate and human activity. We have set out clear steps to enable nature’s recovery through our Environmental Improvement Plan and Pollinator Action Plan, which will help us meet our legal target to halt the decline in nature by 2030.

“The impacts of warm and dry weather last year are cause for concern, but it is encouraging that the last decade has seen most species stabilise. In particular, I welcome the findings that the Large Blue and the Purple Emperor, two wonderful and unique species people may recognise from Wild Isles, both experienced their second best year on record in 2022.”

Dr James Heywood, Breeding Bird Survey National Organiser at the British Trust for Ornithology, whose volunteers collect butterfly data through the Wider Countryside Butterfly Survey, said: “These data are incredibly valuable as butterflies are indicators of the health of our natural environment and therefore the information gleaned from the UKBMS data is not just used to help understand and conserve butterflies, but also to help understand and protect the wider ecosystem on which so many birds, mammals and other species rely.”

SEPA: East of Scotland records tenth driest summer in 100 years

Scotland, a country famed worldwide for its natural water environment and wet weather, is facing the reality that water is not infinite and is a precious resource we must work together to preserve.

Climate change is forcing every corner of the nation to change its relationship with water as sea levels rise and we experience more flash floods and drought. 

Water scarcity has already proven to be a significant impact in eastern parts of the country this year as the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) reveals the extent of extreme, dry conditions experienced.

  • This summer in the east was the tenth driest in 100 years.
  • Eight out of the last 12 months saw below average rainfall in the region.
  • An extra month worth of average winter rainfall is needed in the east to make up the deficit from the past 12 months.
  • Groundwater levels in the east of Scotland reached their lowest since records began in 2009.

SEPA supports Scotland to adapt to a changing climate and helps steward our national water resource, including warning and informing businesses, communities and individuals during periods of water scarcity.

The risk of water scarcity was reported as early as April this year and what followed was an east-west split in Scotland throughout the summer, with the west experiencing mostly normal conditions while some areas in the east reached Significant water scarcity levels.

In August and September, SEPA took steps to protect the environment from the effects of prolonged dry weather by imposing suspensions on 175 water abstraction licences in four catchment areas.

This required support and compliance from businesses, predominantly within the agriculture sector, around the rivers Eden, Tyne, Tweed and Ythan. Abstractors were required to stop taking water from these areas or reduce volumes for a brief period to allow levels to recover.

Nathan Critchlow-Watton, Head of Water and Planning at SEPA, said: “This was the first year SEPA had to enforce abstraction licence suspensions to protect the sustainability of local water environments. Action like this underlines the severity of the dry conditions we experienced and reinforces the need for businesses to prepare for instances like this in the future.

“Water scarcity is just one indicator of climate change here. With more extreme weather and a projected decrease in summer rainfall in the years to come, many places could face pressure on water resources even if they have not experienced this before.

“It is important that Scotland is ready to deal with water scarcity now and in the future. SEPA is here to help with information to allow businesses to make informed decisions about reducing their reliance on water and to plan for and manage water scarcity events.”

As summer turns to autumn, water levels are improving in areas which have been under the most pressure. However, some northern and eastern catchments are still facing the risk of water scarcity and any businesses still abstracting from the environment are being urged to do so more efficiently. SEPA will continue to monitor and report conditions until all areas return to normal.

SEPA works with abstractors all year round to reduce pressure on the water environment. Abstractors should be taking steps now, in accordance with Scotland’s National Water Scarcity Plan, to plan ahead for a range of conditions they may experience next summer and in the years ahead.

This; includes monitoring their water usage and equipment to ensure they are operating at maximum efficiency and avoid leaks. Businesses are also encouraged to work together and planning and staggering their abstractions to minimise potential impacts on the local ware environments.

For more information on water scarcity and to view the latest report, visit:

www.sepa.org.uk/waterscarcity   

Fossil fuels driving extreme heat and climate breakdown

Environmental campaigners have commented on the extreme weather conditions in the UK. 


Friends of the Earth Scotland Head of Campaigns Mary Church said: “The extreme heat we are experiencing in Scotland, throughout the UK and Europe is one of the many frightening faces of climate change.

“We must be absolutely clear that the impacts of this heatwave on people’s health and wellbeing, on the NHS, on public transport, on the economy are the result of the continued burning of fossil fuels. Climate breakdown is here, it is deadly serious and it will get much worse unless we act urgently to end our reliance on oil and gas.

“The immediate focus should be ensuring that people are kept cool and safe through this period of record-breaking heat. But once it passes, politicians must get serious about stopping the causes of the crisis and about adapting to the increasingly extreme climate impacts that are already locked in due to our leaders’ inadequate action to date.

“Burning fossil fuels is the primary driver of climate breakdown so we must rapidly phase out North Sea oil and gas production, as part of a just transition to a renewable-powered economy with decent green jobs and affordable energy for all.

“The time for rhetorical climate leadership is long past – we need action not words and we need it now.”

Scottish Govt: caution advised in extreme heat

Amber weather warning resilience arrangements remain in place in Scotland today.

People are being asked to consider whether they need to travel and to plan ahead before making any journeys as Scotland copes with the impact of extreme heat.

Justice Secretary and lead minister for resilience Keith Brown has chaired a Scottish Government Resilience Committee meeting (SGoRR) to monitor the impacts of the Met Office Amber warning, while Transport Scotland’s resilience room is closely monitoring impacts across the transport network

The Amber warning has been extended further northeast and now includes Dundee, Edinburgh, the Lothians, Fife, Perth, Clackmannanshire, Falkirk and eastern parts of Lanarkshire as well as the Scottish Borders and Dumfries and Galloway. The warning is currently in force and will last until 23.59 on Tuesday 19 July.

Mr Brown also attended the latest Cabinet Office Briefing Room (COBR) meeting.

He said: “Following the weather warnings, our resilience arrangements have been activated. We are receiving regular updates from partners including Transport Scotland, the Met Office, the NHS and emergency services and we’ll continue to closely monitor developments.

“I would urge people to think about whether they need to travel and if they do, make sure they’re properly equipped, and plan their journey in advance. Rail passengers and drivers should make sure they have water, sunscreen, hats and sunglasses and have a fully charged phone in case of any difficulties. Any drivers who face breakdowns should seek a safe, shady place, and stay hydrated.

“When temperatures increase, it’s important to monitor forecasts and follow public health advice, including staying hydrated and drinking plenty of fluids and avoiding excess alcohol. People should also look out for vulnerable family, friends and neighbours, as older people, those with underlying conditions and those living alone may struggle to keep cool and hydrated.

“Water safety incidents and drownings increase in hot weather and it’s vital that people are aware of the dangers and use supervised beaches and pools when possible – follow the Water Safety Code and in an emergency call 999. People should also be aware of the dangers of wildfires.”

TUC: Urgent heatwave warning to union reps and workers

With the Met Office issuing its first “Red Extreme” and “danger to life” heat warning for Monday (18) and Tuesday (19), and temperatures in some places reaching 40°C, the TUC is calling on bosses to make sure workers are protected from the sun and the heat.

Workers should be aware that employers have a duty of care, and a legal obligation to protect their health, ensuring working temperatures are reasonable, comfortable and safe.

These temperatures present a serious risk of sunstroke, heat stress and sunburn. Working in hot weather can also lead to dehydration, tiredness, muscle cramps, rashes, fainting, and – in the most extreme cases – loss of consciousness.

If a colleague becomes confused or agitated, loses consciousness, or is unable to drink, seek urgent medical attention.

Outdoor work

Employers must work with union health and safety reps to introduce measures to protect their staff who work outdoors when the temperatures rise, including:

  • Avoiding outside tasks between 11am – 3pm when temperatures, and risks, are highest.
  • Provide sunscreen and advice on the need for protection, available in other languages for migrant workers where relevant.
  • Allow staff to take plenty of breaks and provide a supply of drinking water.
  • Provide canopies or covering over open areas and shaded areas for breaks.
  • Provide lightweight protective clothing, including hats.

Driving

The heat can be dangerous for workers whose jobs involve driving, as any driver suffering from fatigue is a risk to themselves and other people. vehicles used for long journeys should be temporarily taken out of use if they cannot sustain a reasonable temperature, e.g. they do not have air conditioning.

Indoor work

Indoor workplaces could also become dangerously hot, and TUC advice is that nobody should be working indoors where temperatures exceed 30°C. At 24°C employers must take action to cool the air, and other measures including:

  • Using fans or other mechanisms to cool the air, as well as adequate ventilation.
  • Relaxing dress codes and uniform policies.
  • Allowing rest breaks and adjusting shifts to avoid travelling in peak heat.
  • Moving workspaces away from windows and other heat sources, using blinds to block out sun.
  • Providing cool drinking water.

Maximum temperatures

Employers must ensure working temperatures are “reasonable”. The TUC believes employers must take action when indoor temperatures exceed 24°C, with 30°C being an absolute maximum – certainly no longer “reasonable”.

Guidance elsewhere states:

  • In the US regulations say working temperatures should not go beyond 24°C
  • Spain has strict guidelines on working temperature: it must not go beyond 27°C indoors or 25°C for physical activity.
  • In Germany, 26°C is generally considered the maximum for indoor work.
  • In China, when temperatures reach 37°C outdoor work is banned during the hottest three hours of the day, and at 40°C it must stop altogether.
  • In the UAE, outdoor work is banned entirely between the hours of 12:30 and 15:00 when it’s hottest.

SPF is PPE

Personal Protective Equipment is defined as “all equipment which is intended to be worn or held by a person at work and which protects him against one or more risks to his health or safety, and any addition or accessory designed to meet that objective.”

Sunburn and complications resulting from UVA radiation are a known risk to health, and outdoor workers are already three times more likely to develop skin cancer than the general working population. Sunscreen creates a barrier between the worker and the risk, and as such should be considered personal protective equipment.

Employers should provide sunscreen with a factor of at least 30, made available free of charge to all workers whose work involves outdoor activities.

Excuses such as allergies should be dismissed. Workers can be allergic to any number of ingredients, fabrics or materials used in equipment, for example hand sanitsier.

Refusal by a worker to wear PPE on that basis is valid. Refusal by the employer to supply it to the wider workforce is not.

The right to refuse

Section 44 of the Employment Rights Act 1996 provides workers protection from detriment (i.e. dismissal, disciplinary or a pay cut) if they withdraw from and to refuse to return to a workplace that is unsafe.

Workers are entitled to remain away from the workplace if – in their opinion – the prevailing circumstances represent a real risk of “serious and imminent danger” which they could not be expected to avert.

The TUC says workers should seek advice from their union before using their rights under Section 44.

Avoid stepping into danger at Scottish walking festivals

  • The summer season will see thousands of people take park in walking festivals across Scotland
  • Common injuries at these kind of events include fractures, food poisoning while foraging, and falling ill from extreme weather 
  • Earlier this year, six people lost their lives on mountains across Scotland in the space of two weeks, highlighting the danger of walking when unprepared

Summer is here, meaning that walking festival season in Scotland is officially upon us.

In the next few days, major festivals including the Moray Walking and Outdoor Festival, taking place from 17-27 June, and The Great Scottish Walk and Run Festival, on 26 June, are happening. Whether you’re taking part in a short stroll, running 5K, or hiking in the mountains, it’s important to be aware of the potential hazards.

To ensure that you create happy memories, and that nothing gets in the way of you having an enjoyable time, National Accident Helpline provides some top tips on staying safe whilst venturing out into the great outdoors. 

  1. Slippery slopes

Walking or hiking is one of the best ways to experience Scotland. With this being said, it’s no surprise that slips and trips are commonplace amongst walkers, especially when combined with poor weather conditions. 

Whilst out walking in the countryside, public toilets can be a particular area of danger. The combination of muddy walking boots and the smooth surface of a toilet floor is a clear slip and trip hazard, which can result in injuries such as ankle sprains and broken bones. Other hazards to watch out for whilst out hiking include uneven or rocky surfaces and wet, slippery grass.

To keep safe, avoid walking on rough ground, especially on hazardous terrain that contains loose and large stones. This is important to remember when walking on slopes or mountainsides. The best way to keep your footing and balance is by using trekking poles.

It may seem obvious, but also make sure you wear the right footwear. If you’re walking on roads, choose lighter boots, as heavy footwear can cause you to drag your feet, which can lead to a trip. If you’re carrying a backpack, then boots with ankle support are essential. 

  1. Food poisoning whilst foraging 

Food poisoning – whether from uncooked food prepared by a street food vendor or by foraging for your own – is another factor that can risk your health whilst at a walking festival. 

Although foraging is a fun way to get up close to nature and wildlife in Scotland, it can be extremely harmful, especially if you do not know what to look for. 

To avoid harming your health, there’s a few simple rules to follow: 

  • In line with the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, it’s illegal to collect wild plants or fungi on a National Nature Reserve (NNR) or a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
  • Pick from clean areas, avoiding places subject to pollution. To avoid contamination, remember to wash your food and hands before and after you eat. 
  • Know what you’re picking, as some species of mushroom and fungi are poisonous and can even be fatal. Before the festival, remember to learn about the various species and read the Scottish Wild Mushroom Code. 

Although street food vendors at festivals are generally safe, if you do find yourself falling ill, immediately report it to the local council. Reporting the vendor will often lead to an investigation taking place and something being done to prevent it from happening again.  

Under the Consumer Protection Act 1987, you could also claim compensation if you can prove that a caterer has caused you to become poisoned by food. 

  1. Beating extreme weather

As the weather can change in an instant, the Scottish outdoors should be taken seriously. Although Scotland has a mild climate, the combination of wind and wet weather means that hypothermia can be a significant hazard.

To avoid hypothermia, wear and carry appropriate shell and insulated clothing, including a spare hat and gloves. Additionally, make sure to carry snacks that you can graze on throughout the day and which will give you plenty of energy. 

With heatwaves being predicted, heat exhaustion or heatstroke is another factor watch out for. To avoid falling ill, wear light-coloured, loose clothing, stay hydrated, and try to walk in the shade where possible. If you do find yourself falling ill, contact the festival first aiders as soon as possible. 

Jonathan White, Legal and Compliance Director at National Accident Helpline, said: ‘’With the weather heating up and walking festivals set to get into full swing in Scotland, it’s vital that those attending are fully prepared to avoid any risk of personal injury. 

‘’Whether you’re going to a nature foraging walk or having a peaceful stroll along the Moray coast, keep safe by ensuring you’re fully prepared for the great outdoors. Invest in suitable clothing and equipment (such as a compass), watch out for trip hazards, be cautious whilst foraging, and prepare for all weather conditions. Doing these simple things will mean you’ll have a safe, enjoyable, and memorable festival experience.’’ 

For more information about National Accident Helpline, or to find out how you can make a claim, please visit:

https://www.national-accident-helpline.co.uk/news/summer-festival-safety

Praise for winter weather efforts as normal service resumes

As business begins to return to usual after days of heavy snow and freezing temperatures, council leaders have praised those working to keep the city moving during this period. Most of the city’s services are expected to resume normal operations today, including the reopening of schools, libraries and neighbourhood offices, though a yellow warning for snow and ice remains in place.

Continue reading Praise for winter weather efforts as normal service resumes

It’s not over yet: Yellow warning remains in place until tomorrow

Scotland is expected to still be facing difficult weather conditions at the start of the new working week. The Met Office have confirmed that the weather will continue to be challenging in some areas, with updated yellow ‘be aware’ warnings for snow and ice warning in place until Tuesday afternoon.

The current Yellow warning for much of the eastern mainland (from the Lothians northwards), and the Orkney and Shetland Islands throughout Monday has been extended to include much of the central belt, the Ayrshires and parts of Dumfries & Galloway.  The warning highlights the possibility of further periods of snow as well as the ice risk and the potentially difficult rain/snow mix on places.

Tuesday’s warning for snow and ice covers parts of the Highlands and northern Scotland through into Tuesday afternoon.  A spell of snow is expected to develop over parts of central and northern Scotland early Tuesday, before dying out from the south through the day. Icy stretches are likely on untreated surfaces.

Deputy First Minister John Swinney said: “The extreme weather we have been experiencing is almost unprecedented in its severity, and has clearly presented major challenges to Scotland’s infrastructure.  

“Conditions have improved significantly in many parts of the country but I would urge the Scottish public to remain vigilant. Yellow (be aware) weather warnings are still in place across all but the most westerly parts of Scotland, and in most parts ice and surface water will create challenges for drivers on some minor roads.

“The advice from Police Scotland is travel with caution in all areas, and drivers are encouraged to plan ahead and check weather forecasts.”

 

 

First Minister praises care and response services

The First Minister has praised the efforts and resilience of those involved in responding to the recent extreme weather conditions. The worst may be over, but Scotland is still expected to face difficult conditions at the start of the new working week. Continue reading First Minister praises care and response services

Could you be a Snow Angel during Storm Emma?

The dangers of icy and wet footpaths can result in older and vulnerable people being left stranded in their homes during bad weather. Living Streets, the UK charity for everyday walking, is urging councils, businesses and neighbours to be ‘Snow Angels’ and grit pavements outside of homes and on high streets as the poor weather continues. Continue reading Could you be a Snow Angel during Storm Emma?