12 hours ago
- Climate
- The Herald Scotland
Amber heat health alert issued for all of England by UKHSA
A yellow heat health alert was initially issued on Tuesday (June 17) for most of the country by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), but this has been upgraded.
According to the Met Office's latest forecasts, much of the south of England will see temperatures between 31C and 32C by Thursday afternoon (June 19).
It would make for the hottest day of the year so far, beating the 29.4C recorded in Suffolk on Friday, June 13, Sky News reports.
Just how high will temperatures get? 🌡️
Here's a look at when the peak temperatures may occur where you are over the next few days 📈 — Met Office (@metoffice) June 18, 2025
By this weekend, temperatures are forecast to hit highs of 33C and the amber alert is currently in place until 9am on Monday, June 23.
What are heat health alerts?
The Heat-health Alert Service forewarns of periods of high temperatures, which may affect the health of the public.
According to the Met Office, it is aimed at health and social care professionals and any person with a role in reducing the harm extended periods of hot weather can have on health.
This service is provided by the UKHSA in partnership with the Met Office between June and September, and has been in operation since 2004.
What does an amber health alert mean?
According to Sky News, an amber alert indicates that "significant impacts are likely" across health and social care services.
It adds that there could be "a rise in deaths" among people with pre-existing health conditions and those aged over 65.
The Met Office adds: "An amber alert would represent a situation in which the expected impacts are likely to be felt across the whole health service, with potential for the whole population to be at risk and where other sectors apart from health may also start to observe impacts, indicating that a coordinated response is required."
How to stay cool in summer in the UK
The NHS suggests staying out of the heat if possible, adding that it is best to stay shaded, particularly between 11am and 3pm.
Recommended reading:
It also recommends using sunscreen, wearing a hat and light clothes, and avoiding exercise or activity that makes you hotter.
To cool yourself down, have cold food and drinks and have a cool shower or put cool water on your skin or clothes.
It is also vital to keep your living space cool, closing windows during the day and opening them at night when it is cooler.
