The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued a yellow heat health alert for the South West in anticipation of soaring temperatures expected to exceed 30°C this weekend. The Met Office forecasts that parts of Somerset could see temperatures climb as high as 33°C on Saturday, July 12.
While some regions may experience milder conditions, the Met Office warns that heatwave conditions will prevail across multiple areas over the weekend. This heat poses significant challenges for health and social care services, particularly in the South West, where the UKHSA alert is active from Wednesday, July 9, through Monday, July 15.
These heat health alerts aim to inform and prepare the public for the potential health risks associated with sustained high temperatures. Should the heat threaten to overwhelm the entire healthcare system, an amber alert may be issued to signal a higher level of risk to the population.
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Met Office Chief Meteorologist Jason Kelly explained, “High pressure from the Atlantic is causing temperatures to rise steadily, with heatwave criteria anticipated this weekend. Although peak temperatures may not exceed those recorded earlier in the month, this heatwave is expected to be longer-lasting and affect a broader area, extending further north and west across the UK.”
Temperatures are projected to reach over 30°C starting Thursday, with peaks around 31°C on Thursday and possibly hitting 32°C in parts of England and Wales on Friday. The heatwave is expected to ease by early next week.
Residents are advised to take precautions to stay cool and hydrated as the intense heat moves through the region.