The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has extended a yellow heat-health alert for Merseyside until Wednesday, July 15 at 9pm, as a heatwave continues across the region. The alert, initially issued last week, was upgraded from yellow to amber before being revised back to yellow, and now remains in force beyond the original Sunday deadline.
Heatwave Conditions Persist
Temperatures exceeded 30°C in Merseyside over the weekend, with a peak of 34°C recorded. This week, the Met Office forecasts maximum temperatures of 29°C on Tuesday, with widespread sunshine expected through the week. The hot weather is set to continue into the coming days, though a brief respite may arrive by the weekend.
According to the UKHSA, the yellow alert indicates that while most people are unlikely to be affected, vulnerable individuals—including those over 65 and younger age groups—may face health risks. The agency warns of potential impacts on health and social care services, with indoor temperatures in hospitals and care homes potentially exceeding recommended thresholds. The heat could also affect workforce capacity and increase risks for vulnerable people living independently.
Risks and Precautions
The UKHSA highlighted that water-related incidents, such as cold-water shock and drowning, may increase during the hot weather. The Met Office's outlook for the north west states: "Largely dry and settled throughout with plenty of sunshine. A small chance of a few thunderstorms, especially later in the week. Staying very warm by day and warm by night."
Meteorologist Honor Criswick said: "For the time being it looks like the heatwave is set to continue, but depending on where you are, there may be a brief respite in the heat to come." Milder conditions are expected over the weekend, with Saturday and Sunday forecast to reach 21°C.
