Emergency services have issued a severe warning as the latest in a series of heatwaves hits Wales, with temperatures forecast to rise above 30°C again this week.
Third Heatwave of the Year
This marks the third heatwave of the year for Wales, coming just weeks after record-breaking temperatures in June. Bute Park in Cardiff recorded Wales' hottest ever June day at 35.9°C, prompting a Met Office red warning for extreme heat. That heatwave caused widespread disruption, including hundreds of school closures and rail service cancellations.
Surge in Emergency Calls
Emergency services experienced a surge in demand during the June heatwave. The Welsh Ambulance Service received over 400 extra emergency calls per day during that period. Darren Panniers, Head of Service at the Welsh Ambulance Service, said: “We have seen that warmer weather increases demand and can contribute to incidents such as falls through dehydration, dizziness, low blood pressure, fatigue, and reduced mobility.” He advised the public to look out for warning signs of dehydration, including confusion, weakness, excessive tiredness, headaches, and reduced appetite, and to take simple preventive steps like offering cold drinks, ice lollies, and high-water-content foods.
Public Urged to Use NHS 111 Wales
To help manage demand, the ambulance service is reminding the public to only call 999 in genuine life-threatening emergencies. Those with minor injuries or illnesses can use the NHS 111 Wales website or the Albot digital assistant for advice.
Dangers of Open Water
Other incidents linked to the hot weather include people getting into difficulties in open water. In May, there were 10 heat-related deaths across the UK, including one in Wales. Public Health Wales has warned against swimming in open water to cool off, citing the risk of cold water shock, as water temperatures remain much lower than air temperatures. South Wales Fire and Rescue Service station manager Gavin Murphy said: “We want people to enjoy the warm weather but we are urging everyone to take care around open water. Rivers, lakes, reservoirs, quarries, and canals can look calm and inviting but they can be cold, deep, and unpredictable. Warm weather does not mean warm water and cold water can affect your breathing and swimming ability very quickly.” He advised swimming only at supervised locations, never jumping into open water, avoiding alcohol near water, and calling 999 if someone is in trouble.
