Yellow heat health alerts are in place for most of England this week, with daytime temperatures expected to reach 30°C (86°F). These alerts, issued by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), will remain active in eight regions until 17:00 on Thursday. A yellow alert signifies potential risks to vulnerable individuals, with probable minor impacts on the health and social care sectors.
Weather Forecast for the Week
The coming days are set to bring the highest temperatures of the summer as warm air moves northwards across the UK. Scotland and Northern Ireland will experience their warmest weather on Monday, with temperatures reaching 24 to 27°C. However, cooler and cloudier weather is expected from Tuesday.
In contrast, England and Wales will see prolonged heat, with midweek temperatures likely hitting 29 to 30°C in the South East, accompanied by strong sunshine. Some areas might even meet the Met Office’s heatwave criteria, with warmer and more humid nights ahead. High pollen levels are also expected across the UK, impacting hay fever sufferers.
The weather is forecast to turn cooler and wetter later in the week, though the timing of this change remains uncertain.
Understanding Heat Health Alerts
Introduced in June 2023, the heat health alert system, managed by the UKHSA and the Met Office, aims to reduce illness and deaths during extreme weather by improving communication. These alerts, active from 1 June to 30 September, are issued to the public and healthcare professionals, providing guidance and details on expected weather conditions and their impacts.
Current Alert Status
Yellow heat health alerts have been active since 08:00 on Monday, 24 June, in the following regions:
- East Midlands
- West Midlands
- North West
- South East
- South West
- East of England
- London
- Yorkshire and the Humber
The North East is not affected. The alerts will continue until 17:00 on Thursday, 27 June. The weather is expected to turn cooler and wetter by the end of the week, but the exact timing remains uncertain.