UKHSA Extends Yellow Heat Health Alerts Across Six English Regions
The UK Health Security Agency has confirmed that Yellow Heat Health Alerts remain in place across six regions of England as forecasters predict another spell of hot weather that could affect vulnerable people and increase demand on healthcare services.
The alerts cover the East Midlands, East of England, London, South East, South West, and West Midlands, and are in effect from 9am on Friday 24 July until 9am on Sunday 26 July. UKHSA issues the alerts in partnership with the Met Office to help health organisations, local authorities, and the public prepare for periods of unusually high temperatures.
A Yellow Heat Health Alert indicates that minor impacts are expected across health and social care services. According to UKHSA, hot weather may lead to increased use of healthcare services by vulnerable people, a greater risk to life for those with existing health conditions, warmer indoor environments, and a higher likelihood of water related incidents such as cold water shock and drowning.
Health officials have urged residents to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day, keep homes as cool as possible, and regularly check on elderly relatives, neighbours, and anyone with underlying medical conditions. Parents are also encouraged to ensure children remain protected from the sun while outdoors.
The alerts coincide with one of the busiest summer holiday travel periods, when millions of people are expected to travel across England. Authorities have advised travellers to carry drinking water, plan journeys carefully, and take extra precautions when participating in outdoor activities during the warm weather.
UKHSA stressed that while the alert level is the lowest on its heat health warning scale, prolonged periods of warm weather can still pose significant health risks, particularly for older adults, infants, and people with heart or respiratory conditions. Officials said healthcare providers and local services have been advised to prepare for a possible increase in heat related illnesses.
The agency will continue monitoring weather conditions alongside the Met Office and will update or escalate the alerts if forecast temperatures or associated health risks increase over the coming days.
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