As the Met Office predicts high temperatures in the coming days, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued a heat-health warning.
High temperatures are anticipated in the Midlands and the south of the country later this week, prompting the first Level 2 heat-health alert of the year.
The alert will be in effect from 12 a.m. on Thursday, June 16 to 12 a.m. on Saturday, June 18 and will affect the East Midlands, East of England, London, South East, and South West regions.
UKHSA’s Head of Extreme Events and Health Protection, Dr Agostinho Sousa, said:
“High temperatures are expected in some parts of the Midlands and the south on Friday. We want everyone to enjoy the hot weather safely when it arrives and be aware of good health advice for coping with warmer conditions.
“During periods of hot weather, it is especially important to keep checking on those who are most vulnerable, such as older people and those with heart or lung conditions. Make sure to look out for signs of heat exhaustion and follow our simple health advice to beat the heat.
Dan Rudman, Deputy Chief Meteorologist at the Met Office, said:
“Temperatures will continue to rise as we go through the week, becoming well above-average by Friday, when many parts of the southern half of the UK are likely to exceed 30°C or even reach 34°C in some places.
“This is the first spell of hot weather this year and it is unusual for temperature to exceed these values in June. Many areas will also see some warm nights with minimum temperatures expected to be in the high teens or even low 20s for some overnight.
When the heat comes, the best strategies to stay safe are to:
- Keep an eye out for those who may struggle to stay cool and hydrated — the elderly, those with underlying diseases, and those who live alone are especially vulnerable
- Close curtains in rooms that face the sun to keep cool indoors — and keep in mind that it may be cooler outside than it is indoors
- Drink plenty of water and limit your alcohol intake
- Never leave anyone, especially newborns, small children, or animals, in a closed, parked vehicle
- Avoid the sun between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., when UV radiation are at their peak
- If you must go out in the heat, take a walk in the shade, apply sunscreen, and wear a wide-brimmed hat
- Avoid strenuous physical activity during the hottest hours of the day
- If you are traveling, make sure to bring water with you
- If you’re going to cool yourself in the sea, be careful and follow local safety recommendations
NHS.UK has more information on the usual signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke.