Heat alert in UK: Warnings issued across parts of England; here's how to stay safe

The time to spend some time indoors seems to be here in the UK. As temperatures soar to mid-30s Celsius, amber heat health warnings have been issued across parts of England. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has announced heat health warnings for the East Midlands, West Midlands, the East of England, London and the South-East from 9 am on Tuesday to 6 pm on Wednesday.Yellow warnings have been issued in the south-west, Yorkshire, the Humber, north-west and north-east for the same days.The agency said the heat was likely to have a significant impact on health and social care services, including potential for a rise in deaths, specifically among those over 65 and with health conditions.Additionally, forecasters have said constant days of high temperature could lead to the UK recording its fourth heatwave of the summer of 2025.

A heatwave is considered when a location has at least three successive days with maximum temperatures exceeding a designated value, as per the Met Office.“These kind of temperatures can result in serious health outcomes across the population … so it is important that everyone takes sensible precautions while enjoying the sun," said Dr Paul Coleman, a public health consultant at the UKHSA.“If you have friends, family or neighbours who are vulnerable, it is important to ensure they are aware of the forecasts and are following the necessary advice.

Check in on them if you can to make sure they know that hot weather is on the way and how to keep themselves safe.”England is also known to be suffering from "nationally significant" water shortfalls, the national drought group warned.

Heat exhaustion and heatstroke amid heat alert

Overheating during the summer often causes heat exhaustion or heatstroke. A heatstroke might require immediate treatment.According to the NHS, heat exhaustion has symptoms such as feeling faint or dizzy, excessive sweating, clammy skin, nausea or vomiting, and muscle cramps.Confusion, no sweating, temperatures over 40 degrees Celsius, hot and dry skin, nausea or vomiting, loss of consciousness, and convulsions or seizures as signs of a heatstroke.

How to stay safe?

To prevent heatstroke or heat exhaustion during the unbearable heat, ensure proper hydration, stay away from the sun during the hottest hours of the day, limit physical activities, cover up in suitable clothing when going outside and make sure the indoors are cool.