UK issues rare red heat-health alerts with temperatures set to rise

The UK Health Security Agency has issued a rare red heat-health alert for large parts of England, warning that an upcoming period of extreme heat could pose a risk to life and disrupt essential services

The alert covers the West Midlands, East Midlands, South East, South West, London, and the East of England.

An amber alert has also been issued for the North West, North East, and Yorkshire and the Humber over the same period, indicating significant potential impacts on health and daily life.

This is only the second time a red heat-health alert has been issued in England, highlighting the severity of the forecast conditions.

What a red alert means

A red heat-health alert is used when heat levels could become dangerous for the entire population, including healthy individuals. Authorities warn that the impacts may extend beyond health services, potentially affecting transport networks, energy supply, water systems, food distribution, and business operations.

Health officials are also concerned about increased pressure on hospitals and care services, particularly for vulnerable people such as older adults, those with existing health conditions, and individuals living alone.

Regional breakdown of alerts

The highest level red alert covers much of southern and central England, including:

• West Midlands
• East Midlands
• South East
• South West
• London
• East of England

Amber alerts are in place for:

• North West
• North East
• Yorkshire and the Humber

Health and emergency preparations

The NHS and social care services are being advised to prepare for increased demand during the heatwave period. Hospitals, care homes, and emergency responders are expected to review staffing levels, cooling systems, and patient risk plans ahead of the hottest days.

The Met Office is working alongside UKHSA to monitor weather patterns and support forecasting of temperature peaks and heat duration.

Advice for staying safe

Officials are urging the public to take precautions to reduce health risks during the heatwave. Key advice includes staying well hydrated, keeping homes as cool as possible by closing blinds and curtains during the day, and avoiding direct sunlight during peak hours, typically between late morning and mid-afternoon.

People are also advised to limit strenuous physical activity during the hottest parts of the day and to check on vulnerable neighbors, friends, and relatives. Special attention is being given to those who may struggle to keep cool, including older adults and people with long-term medical conditions.

Authorities also stress the importance of never leaving children, older people, or animals inside parked vehicles, even for short periods.

Beyond health concerns, officials warn that extreme temperatures could strain infrastructure and services. Transport delays, increased energy demand, and disruptions to daily routines are all possible if conditions intensify further.