The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued an amber heat health alert for most of England, warning of record-breaking temperatures of up to 38C. The alert runs from 11am on Monday, June 22 until 11pm on Wednesday, June 24. A yellow heat alert is also in place for the North East of England during the same period.
Health and Social Care Impacts
The UKHSA warns that minor impacts are likely across health and social care services. These include increased use of healthcare services by vulnerable people, greater risk to life for vulnerable individuals, increased potential for indoor environments to become very warm, and a rise in water-related incidents, including risks from cold-water shock and drowning.
To keep cool, the UKHSA advises closing windows and curtains in rooms that face the sun, avoiding direct sunlight between 11am and 3pm when UV levels are highest, and covering up with suitable clothing, hat, and sunglasses if going outside. Physical activities should be planned for cooler times of the day, such as morning or evening. People are also urged to know the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke.
European Heatwave
Meanwhile, Europe is also experiencing a heatwave, with temperatures forecast to reach 37C in Rome and 39C in Madrid on Monday. In France, highs exceeding 40C are expected, prompting emergency services and military personnel to be placed on wildfire alert.
