St George's Hospital in Tooting, south-west London, has experienced a near-record surge in A&E admissions, with many patients being rushed from Wimbledon due to heat-related illnesses. The Emergency Department handled 574 patients on June 29 during the second heatwave of the year, just shy of the all-time high of 580 on June 12, 2023. For both peaks, heat exhaustion and dehydration were key drivers of emergency admissions.
Hospital Collaborates with Wimbledon to Keep Fans Safe
With temperatures exceeding 30°C for several days during London's third heatwave, hospital chiefs are working closely with the All England Lawn Tennis Club to ensure sports fans receive on-site support or hospital treatment if needed. Nicola Shopland, Site Chief Nurse at St George’s, stated: “The heat can make people seriously unwell and puts extra pressure on our already busy hospitals. We’ll look after you if you need us, but everyone can help us by staying hydrated and safely enjoying the warm weather, World Cup and Wimbledon.”
Heat-Related Illnesses on the Rise
Doctors and nurses have treated patients from the tennis tournament with heatstroke and other heat-related conditions. Additionally, A&E is seeing cases of dehydration and acute kidney injury, which particularly affect older and more vulnerable individuals. Epsom and St Helier hospitals, part of the same NHS trust, also reported increased A&E attendances during the heatwaves, with their busiest weekend on June 27 and 28 since last winter.
Public Health Advice Amid Heatwaves
Hospital bosses are urging the public to take precautions during the heatwaves, which have also caused many Londoners to struggle with sleep during tropical nights. Recommended measures include:
- Spending time in the shade, especially between 11am and 3pm
- Wearing a hat, sunglasses, and loose, light clothing
- Using sunscreen SPF 30 or higher and reapplying regularly
- Drinking plenty of fluids regularly – don’t wait until you feel thirsty
- Choosing water or diluted drinks and avoiding too much alcohol or caffeine
- Looking out for others around you, especially those who may be more vulnerable
Temperature Forecast and Water Restrictions
Temperatures in London could reach 32°C on Wednesday, peaking at 34°C on Thursday, and remaining at 30°C or above until at least Saturday, according to the Met Office. Thunderstorms may erupt over the capital at the end of the week. Thames Water has urged people to stop using hosepipes to water gardens and wash cars during the heatwaves.
AI Used to Protect Vulnerable Patients
During last month’s heatwave, St George’s used AI to identify and contact over 2,000 vulnerable patients, offering to reschedule or arrange virtual appointments. The hospital is repeating this initiative this week to help patients avoid unnecessary travel.
