Heat Health Alerts Issued Across England as Temperatures Soar

Yellow heat health alerts have been issued for most of England this week, with daytime temperatures expected to reach 30°C (86°F).

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has announced that these alerts will remain in effect in eight regions until 17:00 on Thursday. A yellow alert signifies that weather conditions could pose a risk to vulnerable individuals, and the UKHSA anticipates minor impacts across the health and social care sector.

The coming days are predicted to bring the highest temperatures of the summer so far, as warm air moves northwards across the UK. Scotland and Northern Ireland are set to experience their warmest weather on Monday, with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 26°C, and potentially reaching 27°C in eastern Scotland. However, these areas will see cooler and cloudier weather from the west on Tuesday.

In contrast, England and Wales will face prolonged heat, with midweek temperatures likely to hit 29°C or 30°C in the South East, accompanied by strong sunshine. Some regions may meet the Met Office’s official heatwave criteria. Nighttime temperatures will also be warmer and more humid than usual.

Hay fever sufferers should be prepared for very high pollen levels across most of the UK over the next few days. The weather is expected to become cooler and wetter in the latter part of the week, but there is significant uncertainty about the timing of this change.

The weather health alert system, introduced by the UKHSA and the Met Office in June 2023, covers England only. The BBC has reached out to Public Health Wales for comment on their approach. These alerts are sent via email to registered users and are typically issued between 1 June and 30 September for heat, and between 1 November and 30 March for cold weather.

The alerts provide:

• Headline weather conditions expected in the coming days

• Regional impacts of the weather conditions

• Links to additional information, advice, and guidance

This system aims to reduce illness and deaths by enhancing communication between the public and relevant bodies during extreme weather periods. It is important to note that heat health alerts are different from Severe Weather Warnings of Extreme Heat, which are broader warnings covering the entire UK to highlight potential impacts on lives and property.

Yellow heat health alerts have been active since 08:00 on Monday, 24 June, in all but one region of England:

• East Midlands

• West Midlands

• North West

• South East

• South West

• East of England

• London

• Yorkshire and the Humber

The North East is not affected by these alerts. The alerts will remain in place until 17:00 on Thursday, 27 June. The weather is expected to turn cooler, cloudier, and wetter by the end of the week, although the Met Office notes uncertainty about the speed of this transition.

Glastonbury Festival, often associated with rain and muddy fields, might avoid the worst of the weather this year. The ground at Worthy Farm has remained largely dry in the days leading up to the festival, which begins on Wednesday.

The first half of the week will see increasing heat and humidity. However, conditions will become slightly fresher from Thursday afternoon as a weak weather front brings more cloud and possibly light rain. Festival-goers can expect temperatures to be fairly pleasant, ranging from 19°C to 21°C over the weekend, with plenty of sunshine and only a small chance of a few passing showers.

As temperatures rise, it's crucial to take precautions to stay safe and healthy. The UKHSA advises the following:

• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.

• Avoid strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day.

• Use sunscreen and wear lightweight, light-colored clothing to protect against sunburn.

• Check on vulnerable individuals, such as the elderly and those with chronic health conditions.

By following these guidelines, you can minimize the risks associated with extreme heat and ensure a safer summer for everyone.