Yellow Heat-Health Alerts Issued for Four Regions in England
A yellow heat-health alert has been issued for four regions in England by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) as temperatures are expected to reach nearly 30C by the weekend. The alert, which is the first of the season, covers the east of England, the East Midlands, London, and the South East, and is in place from 9pm on Thursday to 8am on Sunday.
According to the UKHSA, a yellow alert means that there could be an increased use of healthcare services by vulnerable people, and may lead to an increase in risk to health for individuals aged over 65 or those with pre-existing health conditions, including respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. Dr Agostinho Sousa, head of extreme events and health protection at UKHSA, said: “Our findings show that even moderate heat can result in serious health outcomes, especially for older adults, and it is therefore important that everyone takes sensible precautions while enjoying the sun.”
The forecasted high temperatures are expected to be short-lived but could primarily impact those over the age of 65 or those with pre-existing health conditions. The Met Office has also issued yellow thunderstorm warnings across three days from Thursday as the warmer weather arrives. Warnings have been issued for parts of south-west England, South Wales, and Northern Ireland for Wednesday night and Thursday, and a further warning has been issued for south-east England and East Anglia from Friday afternoon into early Saturday.
The yellow heat-health alerts have sparked concerns over the serious risks posed by high temperatures, particularly for vulnerable groups such as the elderly, infants, and people with chronic health conditions. Prolonged exposure to heat can worsen heart and lung conditions, potentially leading to a surge in hospital admissions. Heat-related illnesses include dehydration, heat exhaustion, or heatstroke, and symptoms to look out for are things like confusion, excessive sweating, or fainting.
In addition to the heat-health alerts, the Met Office has issued thunderstorm warnings for the south-west of England, Wales, and Northern Ireland on Thursday, and the east and south-east of England on Friday and Saturday. The storms could bring torrential downpours, lightning, and gusty winds – potentially disrupting travel, power supplies, and outdoor events. Temperatures will remain hot and humid during the storm, with fresher conditions felt by the weekend.
To stay safe in the heat, Dr Sousa advises that people should do as much as possible to keep safe during especially hot weather. Drinking plenty of water, avoiding strenuous activity during the hottest parts of the day, and wearing loose, light-coloured clothing are advised to prevent heat-related illnesses. Keeping homes cool by closing blinds or curtains, using fans, or opening windows at night can also make a difference. Public Health England also emphasises the importance of looking out for vulnerable neighbours, friends, or family members, ensuring they have the resources and support needed to cope.
As the UKHSA continues to monitor the situation, they are urging everyone to take necessary precautions to stay safe in the heat. With temperatures set to climb further at the end of the week, it is essential that people take the necessary steps to protect themselves and those around them. The UKHSA and the Met Office will continue to provide updates and guidance as the situation develops.
The Met Office has confirmed that temperatures are set to climb further at the end of the week, with the heatwave expected to peak on Friday and Saturday. The UKHSA is working closely with the Met Office and other agencies to monitor the situation and provide guidance to the public.
In related news,
Source link
