A HEAT health alert has been issued across much of England for this weekend.
Temperatures are expected to reach 28C in some areas tomorrow, rising to 30C on Saturday.
LNPFamilies enjoying the sun on the beach in Brighton, East Sussex[/caption]
The Met Office and UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) warn the health and social care sectors could be put under significant strain by the warm weather.
Those over 65 or with pre-existing health conditions, including breathing and heart problems, are most at risk.
Indoor environments could also become “very warm”.
The yellow alert covers London, the South East, East Midlands, West Midlands, East of England, Yorkshire and the Humber.
It comes into force at midday on July 7 and expires at 9am on July 9.
Dr Agostinho Sousa, head of extreme events and health protection at UKHSA, said: “This weekend it’s 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.
“If you have friends, family or neighbours who are more vulnerable, it is important to check in on them and ensure they are aware of the forecasts and are following the necessary advice.”
Met Office deputy chief meteorologist, Dan Harris, added: “Temperatures will be on the rise from Friday, with a plume of continental air allowing temperatures to reach, and perhaps locally exceed, 30C in parts of England on Friday and Saturday.
“In addition, temperatures overnight will remain high, especially in towns and cities, which will make for an uncomfortably warm night for some.
“Temperatures are likely to start to drop from the west on Saturday and more widely into Sunday, as showers and thunderstorms sweep north-east across the country.”
Yellow alerts are issued during periods of heat or cold which are “likely to impact most people but could impact those who are particularly vulnerable”.
A total of 2,803 people aged over 65 died due to the heat in England in 2022, when temperatures exceeded 40C for the first time on record.
It is predicted that the number of heat-related deaths per year may triple by 2050, according to the UKHSA.
Ways to keep safe in the hot weather
Check on family, friends and neighbours who may be at higher risk of becoming unwell, and if you are at higher risk, ask them to do the same for you
Know the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke and what to do if you or someone else has them
Keep out of the sun at the hottest time of the day, between 11am and 3pm
If you are going to do a physical activity (for example exercise or walking the dog), plan to do these during times of the day when it is cooler such as the morning or evening
Keep your home cool by closing windows and curtains in rooms that face the sun
If you do go outside, cover up with suitable clothing such as an appropriate hat and sunglasses, seek shade and apply sunscreen regularly
Drink plenty of fluids and limit your alcohol intake