Another heatwave is set to sweep across parts of the UK this weekend, with temperatures forecast to reach 34°C or more. The Met Office has issued Amber Heat Health Alerts for the South West, South East, London, and the East of England.
When and Where Will It Be Hottest?
The amber alerts will remain in force until 8pm on Tuesday. Parts of the south are likely to meet the heatwave threshold during the weekend, and there is a 40% chance of exceeding the highest ever June temperature of 35.6°C, set in 1957 and 1976.
Temperatures could hit 32°C for some on Friday, dip slightly on Saturday, rise again on Sunday, and get even higher on Monday. Met Office meteorologist Alex Deakin described these temperatures as “pretty unusual even for the middle part of June.”
There is a small risk of thunderstorms on Sunday, but deputy chief forecaster Gregory Wolverson noted that the hot spell may not bring the “wall-to-wall sunshine and blue skies” of the May heatwave, with cloud and high humidity making it feel “rather oppressive at times.”
What Is an Amber Heat Health Alert?
An Amber Heat-Health Alert is an enhanced response warning issued by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) in partnership with the Met Office. It is triggered when hot weather is severe or prolonged enough to impact the entire health and social care system, potentially putting the wider public at risk.
Impacts on Health and Daily Life
- Widespread Impact: Unlike a Yellow alert, which focuses on highly vulnerable groups, an Amber alert means even healthy people may feel the effects.
- Healthcare Pressure: Hospitals, care homes, and GP surgeries are likely to see a significant surge in demand.
- Multi-Sector Disruptions: Transport (e.g., rail speed restrictions due to track buckling), power infrastructure, and workplace safety may be affected.
Who Is Most at Risk?
During an Amber alert, everyone needs to be careful, but the risk rises dramatically for:
- Older adults (especially those aged 65 and over)
- People with pre-existing chronic conditions, particularly cardiovascular or respiratory diseases
- Very young children and babies
- Those who cannot easily keep cool, such as individuals with mobility issues or those working strenuous outdoor jobs
Four Steps to Stay Safe
Health officials advise taking proactive measures to prevent heat exhaustion and heatstroke:
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day, avoiding excessive alcohol and caffeine.
- Manage Your Environment: Keep your home cool by closing blinds and windows during the hottest parts of the day, and opening them at night when temperatures drop.
- Avoid Peak Heat: Stay out of the sun between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM when the sun’s rays are strongest.
- Check on Others: Take a moment to check in on vulnerable family members, friends, or neighbors to ensure they have what they need to stay cool.
Previous Heatwave Impacts
Temperature records were repeatedly broken during the May heatwave, with 35.1°C measured at Kew Gardens and 32.9°C at Cardiff’s Bute Park. There were 15 deaths in open water across the UK during May’s hot weather.
The UKHSA’s amber health warning means an increased demand is likely on health and social care services, potentially leading to a rise in deaths. Those aged 65 and over and those with health conditions will be most vulnerable, though younger age groups may also be affected.
Less severe yellow health alerts cover the East and West Midlands, warning of minor impacts on services. The Met Office defines a heatwave as three consecutive days with daily maximum temperatures meeting or exceeding a location-specific threshold.
Water Safety Advice
Samantha Hughes, national water safety partner at the RNLI, said: “With warmer weather approaching, it’s important to remember that the water is still cold. Entering it unexpectedly can lead to cold water shock, causing a sudden increase in breathing and heart rate, which may trigger panic.”
She added: “If you find yourself struggling in the water, remember to Float to Live: tilt your head back so your ears are submerged, relax and control your breathing. You may need to gently use your hands to help you stay afloat, and it’s ok if your legs sink – everyone floats differently.”
