The UKHSA alert warns there could be “a rise in deaths” among people with pre-existing health conditions and those aged over 65
An amber heat health alert has been issued across England as the UK experiences a surge in temperatures, marking Thursday as the hottest day of the year so far.
Temperatures peaked at 32.2°C (89.9°F) at both Kew Gardens and Heathrow Airport in west London, surpassing the previous high of 29.4°C (85°F) recorded in Suffolk last Friday. Bushy Park in Teddington and Wisley in Surrey also saw soaring temperatures, reaching 31.6°C (88.88°F). Forecasts suggest the heat may intensify further, with highs of 33°C (91°F) expected by the weekend.
Wales and Northern Ireland also recorded their hottest days of the year, with 30.1°C (86.1°F) in Bute Park, Cardiff, and 25.7°C (78.2°F) at Castlederg in County Tyrone. In Scotland, Glasgow saw a high of 24.3°C (75.7°F), though this fell short of the 25.7°C (78.2°F) recorded earlier this month in Lossiemouth.
In light of the rising temperatures, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued an amber heat health alert for all regions in England. The alert is in force from midday on Thursday until 9am on Monday and warns of likely disruption to health and social care services. It also highlights the potential for an increase in illness and even death among older individuals and those with existing health conditions.
An amber alert signals that the weather is likely to have a significant impact, and public health agencies are urging residents to take precautions, particularly to protect vulnerable groups. The UKHSA has advised staying hydrated, keeping homes cool, and avoiding strenuous activity during the hottest parts of the day.
The Met Office says the UK is now edging toward official heatwave status, which is declared when high temperatures are sustained over three consecutive days. Thresholds for a heatwave differ across the UK, ranging between 25°C and 28°C depending on the region.
According to deputy chief meteorologist Dan Holley, the heat will continue to build as the week progresses, potentially peaking on Sunday. He also indicated the likelihood of thundery showers developing by Saturday morning, alongside the possibility of “tropical nights” – when temperatures remain abnormally high overnight – adding further strain to those most susceptible to heat-related health issues.
The Local Government Association (LGA), which represents councils in England and Wales, has joined charities in urging the public to check on elderly neighbours, people living alone, and others who may be at risk. They have also reinforced the importance of using sun protection, drinking fluids regularly, and staying out of the sun during peak hours.
This week’s extreme weather comes amid broader concerns about climate change and its long-term impact on the UK. The Met Office recently warned that there is a 50:50 chance of UK temperatures reaching 40°C or more again within the next 12 years.
That benchmark was first passed during the record-breaking summer of 2022, when the mercury hit 40.3°C (104.5°F) in Coningsby, Lincolnshire, on 19 July. The previous national record was 38.7°C (101.7°F), set in Cambridge in 2019.
The 2022 heatwave had severe consequences. The intense heat led to widespread fires that destroyed homes, schools, churches, and farmland. Emergency services in London, Leicestershire and South Yorkshire declared major incidents, and the fire brigade faced unprecedented demands.
More worryingly, the summer of 2022 saw over 3,000 heat-related deaths recorded in England, with more than 1,000 of these among older adults during the four-day peak of the heatwave. These statistics have prompted public health officials to treat extreme heat as a significant and growing threat to life.
Experts have stressed the need for better preparation and adaptation measures. These include ensuring public buildings are equipped to handle extreme temperatures, improving early warning systems, and prioritising the health and safety of high-risk groups. Health professionals also recommend redesigning urban environments with more green spaces and shade to help lower ambient temperatures in densely populated areas.
As the UK heads into what may be another record-breaking weekend, the authorities are encouraging people to take the heat seriously. Public information campaigns are being rolled out across media channels, with advice on how to stay safe and help others.
While many may welcome the sunshine, especially at the start of summer, the rising frequency and intensity of heatwaves underline the urgency of addressing climate risks. The coming days will test not only the resilience of public services but also the public’s ability to adapt to a new normal in British weather.
