The UK Health Security Agency has issued a warning that a heatwave is set to return next week, prompting yellow alerts for several regions in England.
Forecasters predict temperatures will soar, with some areas potentially reaching highs above 30°C. The warnings, which cover the North East, North West, Yorkshire and the Humber, West Midlands, East Midlands, and East of England, will be in place from Monday to Thursday next week.
The NHS has warned that hot weather poses serious health risks for vulnerable populations, including older people, young children, those with chronic illnesses, and individuals taking certain medications. Heat-related illnesses can range from mild conditions like heat rash and cramps to life-threatening heatstroke.
Hospitals and emergency services may see an increase in admissions related to heat stress, prompting the NHS to advise the public to take proactive steps to mitigate risks, including staying hydrated, seeking shade during the hottest parts of the day, and checking on vulnerable neighbours. The UKHSA collaborates with the Met Office to issue these alerts, using a four-level system ranging from yellow to red.
The decision to issue a yellow alert is based on a 60% probability of threshold temperatures being reached in at least one region. Previous heatwaves have shown a clear correlation between sustained high temperatures and excess mortality, particularly among the elderly.
Data from the 2022 heatwave revealed an estimated 2,985 excess deaths in England attributable to heat between 1 June and 7 September. The UKHSA's alert serves as a reminder for the public to remain vigilant and adhere to public health advice to minimise potential adverse health outcomes during this forthcoming period of hot weather.