Health services are at risk of becoming overwhelmed due to the sweltering heat
England faces a potential “rise in deaths” after the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) issued nine heat-health warnings across the entire country.
Nine Amber-level alerts will be in place from noon on Thursday (June 19) until 9 am on Monday (June 23) with temperatures slated to soar to 33C.
The North East, North West, Yorkshire and The Humber, East Midlands, West Midlands, East of England, London, South East and South West regions are all operating under the warnings.
UKHSA had initially assigned Yellow alerts to just four regions of the country, on Wednesday, but elevated the risk to Amber across all regions.
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The increased level indicates “significant impacts are likely” across health and social care services as well as a potential “rise in deaths” among people with pre-existing health conditions and those aged over 65.
The Met Office predicts temperatures to ascend to 29C on Thursday, before climbing throughout the rest of the week, peaking at 33C on Sunday.
The weather services’ deputy chief meteorologist, Dan Holley has also indicated tropical nights over the weekend with thundery showers.
The next few days could be the UK’s first official heatwave of 2025, a status given once temperatures surpass a certain level for three days in a row.
The Head of Extreme Events and Health Protection at UKHSA, Dr Agostinho Sousa said: “Our findings show that even moderate heat can result in serious health outcomes, especially for older adults, and it is therefore important that everyone takes sensible precautions while enjoying the sun.
“If you have friends, family or neighbours who are more vulnerable, it is important to check in on them and ensure they are aware of the forecasts and are following the necessary advice.’’
The government health agency has published a list of ways to stay safe during the heat, such as:
- Keeping your home cool by closing windows and curtains in rooms that face the sun
- Wearing suitable clothing, such as an appropriate hat and sunglasses, seeking shade and applying sunscreen regularly when outside
- Keeping out of the sun at the hottest time of the day, between 11 am and 3 pm
- If you are going to do a physical activity, such as exercising or walking the dog, plan to do so during cooler times of the day
- Drink plenty of fluids and limit alcohol intake during extreme heat
The Met Office recently reported a study which estimated there was a ’50:50′ chance of the UK seeing 40C temperatures within the next 12 years.
July 2022 was the last time temperatures have reached that high with the adding that it “may be possible” temperatures rise as high as 45C.
