The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued its first major heat-health alert of the year, warning that rising temperatures across England could place significant pressure on hospitals, care services, and vulnerable communities.
Amber and yellow heat-health alerts have now been activated across multiple regions as forecasters predict a sustained period of unusually warm weather heading into the final week of May.
From 2pm on Friday, May 22, amber alerts came into effect across London, the South East, East of England, West Midlands, and East Midlands. The warning is expected to remain active until at least 5pm on Wednesday, May 27.
According to the UKHSA, an amber alert signals a heightened risk to public health, with the potential for increased hospital admissions and excess deaths, particularly among elderly residents and people with underlying medical conditions.
Additional yellow alerts have also been issued for the North East, North West, South West, and Yorkshire and the Humber. While considered less severe, yellow alerts still serve as an important warning for health and social care providers to prepare for a rise in heat-related illnesses.
Health officials are especially concerned about people aged 65 and over, as well as individuals suffering from respiratory and cardiovascular conditions. Experts say even moderate heat can quickly become dangerous for vulnerable groups if precautions are not taken.
Dr Anya Gopfert, Consultant in Health Protection at the UKHSA, urged the public to remain alert during the warm spell and support vulnerable members of their communities.
“We know that even moderate heat can lead to serious health problems, especially for older people and those with certain health conditions,”
she said.
She also encouraged residents to check on elderly relatives, neighbours, and friends to ensure they are staying safe and following official guidance during the heatwave conditions.
To help reduce health risks, officials have advised residents to keep indoor spaces cool by closing curtains and windows exposed to direct sunlight during the day. Creating cooler indoor environments is considered one of the most effective ways to prevent heat-related illness.
People spending time outdoors are being urged to seek shade whenever possible, wear hats and sunglasses, and apply sunscreen regularly to avoid additional heat stress caused by sun exposure.
The UKHSA has also advised the public to avoid strenuous physical activity during the hottest hours of the day, typically between 11am and 3pm. Activities such as exercise, running, or walking pets should instead be carried out during the cooler morning or evening periods.
Medical experts are also encouraging people to familiarise themselves with the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke, warning that early recognition can help prevent serious medical emergencies.
The latest alerts highlight growing concerns around extreme weather and public health resilience in the UK, as warmer temperatures continue to become more frequent across England during spring and summer months.
