The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has upgraded its heat health alerts to amber for large parts of England as the country braces for a heatwave over the bank holiday weekend. The Met Office forecasts that temperatures could hit 33°C in southern England and the Midlands on Monday, potentially breaking the May record of 32.8°C.
Amber Heat Health Alert Regions
The upgraded amber alerts cover the following areas:
- London
- East Midlands
- West Midlands
- East of England
- South East England
Yellow Heat Health Alert Regions
Yellow alerts have been issued for regions expected to experience less severe but still notable temperature increases:
- North East England
- North West England
- Yorkshire and Humber
- South West England
The UKHSA warns that impacts are likely across health and social care services due to the high temperatures. There could be a rise in deaths, particularly among those aged 65 and over or with pre-existing health conditions. Increased demand on health services is anticipated, with potential effects on workforce delivery.
The alerts took effect today and will remain in place until Wednesday, May 27, at 5pm BST. The Met Office stated: "The Bank Holiday weekend will see an exceptional spell of warmth for May with a notable heatwave forecast."
Steve Kocher, Met Office deputy chief forecaster, said: "Temperatures will climb through the weekend, especially in the south, where 30°C is likely on Saturday and 32°C on Sunday. Temperatures are forecast to peak on Monday when we could see 33°C recorded in southern England and the Midlands. It is likely that the May and Spring UK temperature records will be broken over the Bank Holiday weekend."
He added: "As well as it being hot, there will be lots of dry and sunny weather for much of the UK. There will however be more cloud and some showers in Northern Ireland and western Scotland through the weekend. With relatively low sea surface temperatures there is also likely to be some low cloud and sea fog clinging closely to western coasts."
The UKHSA advises the public to stay hydrated, look out for vulnerable family members or neighbours, and take sensible precautions in the sun.
