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Heat-health Alert Issued By Public Health England - 19 July 2021

Photo by CHUTTERSNAP on Unsplash

Public Health England (PHE) has extended its heat-health alert as the Met Office forecasts the current hot weather will last until Thursday 22 July.

Much of England can expect hot weather, particularly in the South West and parts of southern and central England. High temperatures are also expected to persist in these areas overnight offering little respite throughout this period.

"Remember to look out for signs of heat exhaustion and follow our simple health advice to beat the heat."

Health risks can increase over a prolonged period of heat. PHE has issued a Level 3 heat-health alert which is supported by an amber extreme heat warning issued today by the Met Office.

Dr Owen Landeg, Scientific and Technical Lead at PHE, said:

"Everybody can be affected by high temperatures and most people are aware of good health advice for coping with hot weather. However, it’s important to keep checking on those who are most vulnerable such as older people and those with heart or lung conditions.

"As we experience the first hot weather episode of the year, it’s important for everyone to remember to adapt their behaviours. This is particularly important during the pandemic with many people self-isolating.

"Most of us want to enjoy the sun. Remember to look out for signs of heat exhaustion and follow our simple health advice to beat the heat."

Keeping cool in hot weather

Chief Operational Meteorologist at the Met Office Steven Ramsdale said:

"The high temperatures are going to continue through a large part of this week, with temperatures regularly in the high 20s and low 30s Celsius by day, along with high overnight temperatures.

"Many areas of the UK will continue to reach heatwave thresholds, and whilst the highest temperatures are likely to be in central and southern parts of the UK, some of the most unusually high temperatures are likely to be seen over parts of the west, particularly over Northern Ireland. There’s also a continuing risk of isolated thundery downpours late in the afternoons but most should stay dry until later in the week. Temperatures should fall for most areas into the weekend along with some more unsettled conditions also looking to develop."

The top ways for staying safe during a heatwave are to:

look out for those who may struggle to keep themselves cool and hydrated – older people, those with underlying conditions and those who live alone are particularly at risk

stay cool indoors: many of us may need to stay safe at home this summer so know how to keep your home cool

close curtains on rooms that face the sun to keep indoor spaces cooler and remember it may be cooler outdoors than indoors

use cool spaces considerately if going outdoors, and wash your hands regularly

drink plenty of fluids and avoid excess alcohol

never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, especially infants, young children or animals

try to keep out of the sun between 11am to 3pm, when the UV rays are strongest

walk in the shade, apply sunscreen and wear a wide-brimmed hat, if you have to go out in the heat

avoid physical exertion in the hottest parts of the day

make sure you take water with you, if you are travelling

take care and follow local safety advice if you are going into open water to cool down – during warm weather going for a swim can provide much welcomed relief

remember that while coronavirus (COVID-19) restrictions are in place, you will need to follow any additional government guidance to use public spaces safely

Look out for your older friends and neighbours

Check for signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/heat-exhaustion-heatstroke/