HAMPSHIRE health bosses today issued a heat wave warning as temperatures continue to soar across the south.

Temperatures are due to hit 30C (86F) in Southampton today and tomorrow before a risk of thunder storms sets in.

Accident and emergency staff at Southampton General Hospital saw sharp rise in the number of cases of sunburn and sunstroke.

A majority of those involved people who had drunk too much while among the 10,000 crowd watching England's World Cup exit to Portugal on a big screen basking in temperatures of almost 90F on Southampton Common.

Skin care and health bosses are advising people, particularly the young, old and those with chronic diseases, to take steps to prevent the adverse effects of hot weather such as dehydration.

They have warned to stay indoors during the hottest part of the day and drinking regularly, preferably water or fruit juice.

Alcohol, tea and coffee should be avoided as they make dehydration worse.

Becoming dehydrated and overheated can lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Heat stroke can be fatal.

Skin cancert experts are also urging people to cover up with a t-shirt, hat and sunglasses Remember to take extra care with children, and then use factor 15+ sunscreen Paul Edmondson-Jones, Director of Public Health with Portsmouth City Teaching PCT speaking on behalf of the three local PCTs (East Hampshire, Fareham and Gosport and Portsmouth City) said: "Remembering that getting sunburnt during childhood can double the risk of skin cancer as children and young people's skin is more delicate and easily damaged than adults.

"Also to look after older people. They are much more prone to the effects of heat. If you have older relatives or neighbours you can help simply by checking on them if possible every day"