The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued what it describes as "extraordinary" heat health alerts across large parts of England, with the potential for record-breaking temperatures over the bank holiday weekend and beyond. The alerts, which are unusual for May, have been upgraded from yellow to amber for the Midlands, Eastern England, and South Eastern England. Other regions, including the South West, North East, North West, and Yorkshire and Humber, have been placed under yellow warnings. These alerts will remain in effect until Wednesday, 28 May, at 5pm.
Unprecedented Early Heat
Typically, such heat health alerts are only issued between June and September. However, temperatures are forecast to reach as high as 33°C on Bank Holiday Monday, which would surpass the current record for the hottest day in May in the UK—32.8°C, recorded in 1944. The UKHSA has called the need for these alerts at this early stage "extraordinary."
What Are Heat Health Alerts?
Heat health alerts are issued by the UKHSA to provide early warnings to the NHS and social care authorities about potential threats to public health and wellbeing due to high temperatures. The system uses a colour-coded scale similar to traffic lights:
- Green: No warning—temperatures are unlikely to have significant impact.
- Yellow: Higher than normal temperatures may affect vulnerable groups, such as the elderly or those with health conditions.
- Amber: The entire population could be affected, with potential disruption to services like public transport and the NHS.
- Red: The most severe level, indicating a significant risk to life even for healthy individuals, and a threat to critical infrastructure.
Health Risks and Precautions
The UKHSA warns that the heat poses a "real risk to the most vulnerable," including young children, elderly people, and those with long-term health conditions. Health risks include dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke. Doctors and emergency responders are preparing for an increase in cases. To stay safe, it is advised to avoid going outside during the hottest part of the day (11am to 3pm), use suncream, stay hydrated, seek shade, and wear light, loose clothing. Keeping curtains or blinds closed during the day can also help keep homes cool.
Rail Companies Issue Warnings
In areas under amber alerts, rail companies such as Network Rail and Southern Rail have issued their own warnings. They advise passengers to prepare for higher temperatures by bringing water and to avoid boarding trains if they feel unwell. Journeys may take longer than usual, and services, especially those to coastal destinations, are expected to be busier than normal.
