Amber heat health alerts issued as heatwave expected to hit UK
A yellow alert has been issued as another heatwave is expected to hit the UK at the weekend.
The UK Health Safety Agency (UKHSA) said the warning covers the east, south-east and south-west of England from Thursday afternoon until 8pm on Tuesday.
The yellow heat health alert means “significant impact” is likely across health and care services.
There is a yellow alert for the Midlands covering the same period, indicating a “minor impact” is likely on health and social care services. Water-related incidents, including risks of cold water shock and drowning, may also increase.
The warnings come as the UK braces for a scorching weekend, with temperatures in the south-east set to rise above 30C by Friday.
The mercury will rise to 32C in East Anglia on Friday, 28C on Saturday and 32C in the south and south-east of England on Sunday. Monday offers no respite as forecasters predict a sweltering 33C.
Meteorologist Jonathan Vautrey warned that rising temperatures and humidity will likely coincide with cloudy skies for most, “but those temperatures will still increase.”
He said: “However, this time the weather will become increasingly humid.
“So I think people will definitely notice how muggy the weather is starting to get in the second half of this weekend and some pretty uncomfortable nights for good sleep, with nighttime temperatures in the high teens in parts of the south-east of England.”
UKHSA Head of Extreme Events and Health Protection, Dr. Agostinho Sousa said: “Persistent hot weather can lead to serious health consequences, especially for older adults, and so it is important for everyone to take reasonable precautions when enjoying the sun.
“We encourage health and social care services in affected areas to be prepared and remind people to look out for elderly relatives, neighbors and those with underlying health conditions, stay informed of the forecast and follow necessary advice.
“Simple steps like staying hydrated, avoiding the sun during the hottest parts of the day, and keeping your home cool are some of the essential ways to keep yourself and others safe during hot weather.”
Which groups are particularly vulnerable in hot weather?
According to the NHS, the most vulnerable groups are older people, particularly women over 75, or those who live alone or in care homes.
People with long-term illnesses, such as heart or lung conditions, diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, and some mental health problems, as well as patients taking multiple medications, are at higher risk.
Babies and very young children, as well as people addicted to alcohol or drugs and people with Alzheimer’s disease, may be at higher risk in hot weather.
What are the main risks?
Heat exhaustion can occur when the body becomes overheated and loses too much water and salt.
Symptoms may include fatigue, dizziness, headache, feeling sick, excessive sweating, and being very thirsty.
If people do not cool down within 30 minutes, heat exhaustion can lead to heat stroke, a life-threatening illness.
If you suspect someone is suffering from heat exhaustion, the NHS recommends moving them to a cool location, removing any unnecessary clothing, giving them cold water or a sports drink, and cooling their skin by spraying them with cold water or fanning them.
How can vulnerable groups stay safe during a heatwave?
The NHS advises people to stay out of the sun as much as possible, especially between 11am and 3pm.
Wear sunscreen, a hat and light clothing, avoid exercise, alcohol, caffeine and hot drinks, and stick to cold foods and drinks.
People can also keep their homes cool by closing windows during the day and opening them at night when temperatures drop. Electric fans can also help if the temperature is below 35°C, the NHS said.
Met Office five-day forecast
Thursday
Rain outbreaks in Scotland and Northern Ireland. Low cloud and coastal fog in southwestern areas. Dry with clear spells elsewhere. It feels oppressive, especially in the south.
Friday
The rain, which is effective from the northwest to the southeast, then decreases with showers. Sunny weather is drier than elsewhere. The Southeast is too hot or too hot and muggy.
Outlook from Saturday to Monday
It settles further into the weekend as high pressure begins to build from the south. There is sunny weather and very hot weather; temperatures are well above average for June.
