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Heat health alerts are now in place across England as the country prepares for another spell of hot weather, with temperatures expected to rise sharply later this week.
All regions of England except the North East are currently under amber heat health alerts, meaning significant impacts on health and social care services are considered likely as temperatures increase.
The alerts have been issued by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), which has warned that the extreme heat could create a range of risks for public health and essential services.
Potential impacts include an increase in deaths, particularly among people aged 65 and over and those with existing health conditions. Hospitals and care homes could also struggle to maintain recommended indoor temperatures, creating additional challenges for vulnerable people.
The UKHSA has also warned that high temperatures could affect the ability of workers to deliver services effectively. Health and care providers may face difficulties managing medicines, while staffing problems could arise because of external factors such as disruption to transport.
The heat could also put additional pressure on electricity networks, with increased demand for power potentially exceeding available capacity. Authorities have further warned of a possible rise in water-related incidents during the hot weather.
A yellow heat health alert carries the same potential risks, but they are considered possible rather than likely. The North East is currently the only region of England covered by a yellow alert.
The hottest conditions are expected on Thursday, when temperatures could climb as high as 36C in some parts of the country. The peak of the heatwave is expected to bring the greatest pressure on health and other services.
The current alerts are due to remain in place throughout the rest of the working week, with all of them scheduled to end at 9pm on Friday.
However, the UKHSA has warned that the alert levels and timings could change depending on how the weather develops over the coming days.
Authorities are urging people to take precautions during the hot weather, particularly those who are older, have existing health conditions or may be more vulnerable to the effects of high temperatures. People are also encouraged to stay hydrated, keep cool where possible and check on vulnerable relatives, friends and neighbours.
