The North East is set to experience its third heatwave in as many months this week, with a yellow heat health warning in effect from 9am on Wednesday, 8 July until 9pm on Sunday, 12 July. The Met Office has confirmed that while temperatures will rise, they are not expected to reach the record-breaking levels seen in May and June.
Heat Health Warning Details
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued a yellow heat health warning for the North East, with a risk score of 10, indicating that significant impacts are possible across health and social care services. Amber heat health alerts are in place across much of southern England, where risks of medical incidents such as dehydration and heatstroke are much higher.
Dr Agostinho Sousa, Head of Extreme Events and Health Protection at UKHSA, said: "Sustained periods of warm weather can result in serious negative health outcomes across the population, so it is important that everyone takes sensible precautions while enjoying the sun." He added that older adults and those with pre-existing conditions remain at risk, though health impacts are not expected to be as high as the June heatwave.
Temperatures Not Record-Breaking
Met Office deputy chief forecaster Steven Keates said: "Parts of the UK are entering heatwave conditions: the third heatwave in the UK so far this year. However, unlike the May and June heatwaves, we are not expecting this heatwave to be record-breaking." He noted that parts of southern England could see several days in the low 30s Celsius, with a few places possibly reaching 34-35°C later in the week.
Travel Disruption Expected
National Rail Enquiries has urged train passengers to check for updates due to the forecast heatwave. Heat-related problems on the railway include buckled rails, sagging overhead electric wires, and lineside fires. Steel rails can exceed 50°C when the air temperature is 30°C, and speed restrictions may be introduced in some areas to minimise risk. The North East experienced travel disruption during June's heatwave, with multiple delays and cancellations across various transport methods.
Precautions and Advice
Keates advised people to "take the usual precautions with the heat and the sun." Dr Sousa recommended staying hydrated, avoiding the sun during the hottest part of the day, and keeping homes cool. He also urged checking on vulnerable friends, family, and neighbours to ensure they are aware of the forecast and following necessary advice.
