HEAT health alerts have been upgraded from yellow to amber in eight parts of England.
Ahead of temperatures hitting a predicted 32C this week, the UK Health Security Agency has warned health and social care services could come under “significant” pressure.
AlamyThe sun rising over Worthing pier in Sussex this morning as heat alerts were upgraded[/caption]
Officials cautioned that vulnerable people – like the elderly, young children and those with health conditions – were at increased risk of dying until at least Sunday.
Temperatures in hospitals and care homes may also exceed the recommendations, and indoor environments could “overheat”.
Officials added that travel delays and staffing issues could be expected.
The amber alerts are in force across London, the South East, South West, East of England, West Midlands, East Midlands, Yorkshire and the Humber and the North West until 9pm on September 10.
A yellow alert in the North East remains in place until the same time.
Met Office chief meteorologist Neil Armstrong said: “High pressure is situated to the southeast of the UK, which is bringing more settled conditions and temperatures well above average for the time of year.
“While the highest temperatures are expected in the south, heatwave conditions are likely across much of England and Wales especially, with parts of Scotland and Northern Ireland also likely to see some unseasonably high temperatures.”
His colleague Jonathan Vautrey added: “The last time we hit 30C in the UK was on July 7 so almost two months ago and 32C was all the way back to the end of June.
“It is a late dose of summer but unfortunately not everyone might be able to make the most of it with school activities.”
Jonathan warned of the health risks to the vulnerable, stressing the temperatures will be 10C above average for September.
He urged people to stay hydrated and use sunscreen, with UV levels being moderate to high.
“It does bring health risks to people who are vulnerable,” he said.
Dr Justine Shotton, senior vice president or the British Veterinary Association, added that pets were also at risk.
She said: “We may be past the peak summer months but it’s important to remember that this September sun and heat is also dangerous for animals.
“Pets can be extremely susceptible to heat-related illnesses such as heatstroke, and can also suffer sunburn, heart conditions and breathing difficulties, many of which can sadly be fatal.
“Make sure all pets have access to fresh drinking water, good ventilation and shade from direct sunlight at all times.”
Forecasters are predicting the mercury to rise to at least 30C on Tuesday.
But parts of the country are set to fry further on Wednesday and Thursday with highs of 32C, in Berkshire and southern areas of the Midlands.
Yellow heat health alerts are issued during periods of hot or cold weather which are “likely to impact most people but could impact those who are particularly vulnerable”.
They are upgraded to amber when the weather impacts are “likely to be felt across the whole health service, with potential for the whole population to be at risk”.
Non-health sectors may also start to observe impacts and a more
significant coordinated response may be required, the UKHSA added.
A red alert, considered an “emergency response”, indicates significant risk to life for even the healthy population.
Ways to keep safe in the hot weather
Keep out of the heat, if you can
If you have to go outside, stay in the shade especially between 11am and 3pm
Always wear sunscreen (with SPF rating of 30), a hat and light clothes
Avoid exercise or activity that makes you hotter
Have cold food and drinks
Avoid alcohol, caffeine and hot drinks
Have a cool shower or put cool water on your skin or clothes
Keep your living space cool by closing windows during the day and open them at night when the temperature outside has dropped
Source: NHS