The North East is bracing for a five-day heatwave that could see temperatures soar higher than Lanzarote, prompting a 108-hour heat health alert upgraded to a risk score of 10. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and Met Office have warned of significant impacts, including a potential rise in deaths and increased demand on health services.
Heat Health Alert Extended and Upgraded
The heat health alert for the North East was initially set for 60 hours but has been nearly doubled to 108 hours. It is now in effect from 11:00 AM on 22 June 2026 to 11:00 PM on 26 June 2026. The risk score has been raised from 7 to 10, indicating a high likelihood of significant impacts.
The official alert states: "Significant impacts are possible across health and social care services due to the high temperatures." This includes a rise in deaths, increased demand for health services, and a higher risk of water-related incidents as people seek to cool down.
UKHSA Urges Precautions
Dr Agostinho Sousa, Head of Extreme Events and Health Protection at UKHSA, said: "Sustained periods of warm weather can result in serious health outcomes, especially for older adults, and it is therefore important that everyone takes sensible precautions while enjoying the sun." He urged health and social care services to prepare and reminded people to check on elderly relatives, neighbours, and those with underlying health conditions.
Simple steps such as staying hydrated, avoiding the sun during the hottest part of the day, and keeping homes cool are key to staying safe, he added.
Regional Differences in Weather Warnings
While the North East remains under a yellow weather warning, other parts of the UK face amber warnings, indicating more severe impacts. The Met Office expects the heat to last until at least Thursday, raising concerns for vulnerable people and water safety.
Met Office meteorologist Jonathan Vautrey said: "I'm sure many of us will be wanting to get outside and enjoy some of this heat, but it certainly is worth taking care as we could see some impacts around." He emphasized water safety, warning of cold water shock when entering water bodies.
Potential Temperature Records
Forecasters have growing confidence that this week could break the record for the hottest June temperature of 35.6°C, set in 1976 in Southampton. This comes just a month after the all-time May temperature record was broken in the previous heatwave.
North East Temperature Forecast
While the North East won't see the highest UK temperatures, it will still bake under the June sun. The peak is expected around 4 PM on Thursday 29 June. In Northumberland, Alnwick will see a milder 20°C, but inland near Hexham, temperatures could reach 28°C. Between Newcastle and Sunderland, areas north of the Tyne will enjoy 25°C, while Sunderland will see 23°C. The hottest spot is Darlington, with a scorching 29°C on Thursday. In comparison, Lanzarote will peak at 27°C. After Thursday, temperatures will cool to the high teens and low 20s.
