Dozens died in Greater Manchester during last year's summer heatwaves, data shows, as life-saving action plans are triggered across the UK by a rare red health warning. Last summer, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) observed 1,504 heat-associated deaths in England, with 41 reported in Greater Manchester. These deaths were linked to five "heat episodes" in which average temperatures reached at least 20C.
Heat Deaths in Context
The total for Greater Manchester was fewer than the 57 heat-associated deaths in 2024, despite cooler temperatures that year. While that is a significant loss of life, statistical modelling had predicted that the death toll would be twice as high, estimating 3,049 potential deaths in England based on the intensity of the weather. According to these prediction models, 1,535 lives were saved nationwide thanks to prevention measures such as heat alerts and actions taken across the health, social care, and emergency response sectors.
While there were 193 more deaths than during the unseasonably cool summer of 2024, it was a huge drop from the far deadlier summers of 2023 (2,295 heat-associated deaths) and 2022 (2,985).
Mapping the Risk
Using UKHSA data, we've mapped the UK areas that faced the greatest risk of heat-associated death last year. The highest numbers of heat-associated deaths were in London (317), followed by the West Midlands (142), Essex (120), and Northumbria (81). But when adjusted for population size, the greatest risk of heat-related death was in Bedfordshire.
According to UKHSA estimates, there were nine heat-associated deaths for every 100,000 of the population in Bedfordshire. That was far higher than in Durham and Norfolk, the two areas with the next-highest risk, where there were seven heat-associated deaths per 100,000 people.
Current Heatwave and Warnings
It comes as the Met Office said this week's heatwave could see temperatures smash records, hitting 38C to 40C in some parts of England and Wales, as human-driven climate change intensifies the impact of a "heat-dome" settling over western Europe. Extreme heat weather warnings have been issued across England and Wales.
The UKHSA this week issued a rare red health warning for six regions of England: the West Midlands, East Midlands, East of England, South East, South West and London. The alert is active from 1am on Wednesday until 11pm on Thursday (June 25). This extreme alert indicates "a risk to life for even the healthy population" with potential disruptions extending to transport, food, water, energy supplies and businesses. It is only the second red heat health warning ever issued in the UK.
A separate amber health alert has also been put in place for the North West, North East, and Yorkshire and the Humber. While the hot temperature has put councils, health and social services on high alert, data shows that preparation can prevent tragedy.
Regional Variations
The UKHSA data shows that heat-associated deaths were predominantly observed in southern, central, and eastern regions of England. No statistically significant heat-associated mortality was detected in the North East, North West, or Yorkshire and The Humber last year - although these areas are still urged to be cautious under this week's amber alert.
Advice and Preparedness
The UKHSA has already updated and published its Adverse Weather and Health Plan for England to help local authorities navigate this week's extreme weather. Dr Agostinho Sousa, Head of Extreme Events and Health Protection at UKHSA, said: "Very hot weather is forecast across large parts of England in the coming days, and we are urging health and social care services across the country to ensure they are prepared. It is vitally important that people understand the risk posed by high temperatures like these, and take steps to keep themselves and their friends, families and neighbours safe. Simple actions like staying hydrated, avoiding the sun during the hottest part of the day, and keeping your home cool can make a big difference. It's also important to look out for others, especially elderly relatives, neighbours, and those with underlying health conditions, to make sure they are aware of the forecast and following the necessary advice."
UKHSA advice for keeping cool includes: keep your home cool by closing windows and curtains in rooms that face the sun; try to avoid direct sunlight, especially between 11am and 3pm when UV levels are highest; if you do go outside, cover up with suitable clothing, such as an appropriate hat and sunglasses, and seek shade and apply sunscreen regularly; if you are going to do a physical activity, such as exercise or walking the dog, plan it for cooler times of day, like in the morning or evening.
