Odd 17th-Century Sunken Village Emerge in United Kingdom as Temperatures Increase

As union officials order employees to stop working in the United Kingdom, a historic village that had been buried beneath a reservoir has surfaced.

West End, a little settlement dating back to the 17th century, is now visible as water levels rapidly dropped as the temperature recently reached a scorching 30.1C (86ºF).

Thruscross Reservoir in North Yorks, close to Harrogate, might be viewed from a busy road, an old flax mill, and a deteriorating stone bridge.

(Photo : Matt Cardy/Getty Images)
GLASTONBURY, UNITED KINGDOM - OCTOBER 13: The sun begins to rise over the morning mist on the Somerset Levels viewed the distinctive landmark of the historic 15th century St. Michael's Tower, built on Glastonbury Tor on October 13, 2009 near Glastonbury, England. England, particularly in the south, is currently enjoying a spell of dry, fine weather, allowing the begining of the Autumn foliage colours - brought on by shortening daylight hours and cooler weather - to be fully appreciated.

Old Village Emerge in United Kingdom

Daily Star wrote that locals evacuated a small village named "West End" as it submerged in water in 1966. The place was intended to build Thruscross Reservoir in Harrogate, North Yorkshire, and supply water to other reservoirs.

A former flax mill, major road, and deteriorating stone bridge have now been exposed thanks to increased water use and the resulting steep drop in water levels.

The flax mill, one of the main enterprises in the little hamlet, served as the foundation for the town. Still, by the time the town was flooded, the industry had already dwindled, leaving West End partly abandoned.

The mill's ruins are visible year-round along the water's edge. In contrast, the other ruins are only visible during dry spells when the water level drops.

ALSO READ: Extreme Heat Due to Climate Change May Increase Risk of Chronic Health, Other Diseases

Water Levels in United Kingdom Drop Below Average

Due to higher water use as temperatures climb, water companies throughout the UK have reported reservoir levels that are far below average for this time of year.

As the UK braces for the possibility of 40ºC temperatures early next week, the Met Office (via Big World Tale) issued its first-ever red heat warning.

The majority of central England and London are included in the shock warnings. However, Manchester and York may also experience scorching heat.

Temperatures are expected to reach 35ºC, and an amber warning has been issued for the remainder of the nation.

As things heat up, water supply providers like Severn Trent advise the public to "conserve water" due to the extreme weather.

Britons Asked To Protect Themselves From Working Amid Rising Temperatures

Firms and schools may even have to close to safeguard staff and students from the heat. Unions are urging the UK to enact a legal maximum working temperature.

The Trades Union Congress (TUC) claimed that a maximum working temperature should be implemented, which would cause millions of people to miss work this week.

"Working in hot weather can lead to dehydration, muscle cramps, rashes, fainting, and - in the most extreme cases - loss of consciousness," it said (via The Sun).

To deal with the increasing heat, Greenwich Council employees in London were given additional time off yesterday.