Public Health England Issues Yellow Heatwave Alert For Much Of The Country

Michael

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Post on Jun 19, 2025

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Public Health England Issues Yellow Heatwave Alert for Much of the Country

Record-breaking temperatures expected to impact millions across England.

Public Health England (PHE) has issued a yellow heatwave alert, urging the public to take precautions as a significant heatwave is expected to engulf much of the country. The alert, covering a large swathe of England, warns of potential health risks associated with prolonged periods of high temperatures. This comes as forecasters predict several days of scorching weather, with temperatures potentially reaching record-breaking levels in some areas.

The yellow alert, the lowest level in PHE's heatwave warning system, is a sign of the seriousness of the situation. While it doesn't necessarily signify a widespread public health emergency, it serves as a vital reminder for individuals to protect themselves and those vulnerable to the effects of extreme heat.

Who is most at risk?

The elderly, young children, and those with pre-existing health conditions are particularly vulnerable to heat-related illnesses. These illnesses can range from heat exhaustion – characterized by symptoms like dizziness, headache, and nausea – to the more serious and potentially life-threatening heatstroke.

• The elderly: Older people are often less able to regulate their body temperature.
• Young children: Their bodies haven't fully developed their ability to cope with extreme heat.
• Those with pre-existing conditions: Conditions like heart disease and respiratory problems can be exacerbated by high temperatures.

Staying safe during the heatwave:

PHE is advising the public to take several steps to mitigate the risks associated with the heatwave:

• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids, even if you don't feel thirsty. Avoid excessive alcohol consumption.
• Stay cool: Spend time in cool places such as shaded areas, air-conditioned buildings, or swimming pools.
• Check on vulnerable people: Make sure to check on elderly neighbours, friends, and family members, particularly those living alone.
• Protect yourself from the sun: Use sunscreen with a high SPF, wear a hat and sunglasses, and seek shade during the hottest parts of the day.
• Never leave anyone in a parked car: Temperatures inside a parked car can rise rapidly, even on a relatively mild day.

What to do if you experience heat-related illness:

If you or someone you know experiences symptoms of heat exhaustion or heatstroke, seek medical attention immediately. Early intervention is crucial in preventing serious complications. Symptoms of heatstroke include high temperature, confusion, loss of consciousness, and seizures.

Further Information and Resources:

For more information on protecting yourself and others during the heatwave, visit the Public Health England website [link to PHE website]. You can also find helpful advice from the NHS [link to NHS website] on staying safe in hot weather.

This yellow heatwave alert serves as a timely reminder of the importance of heatwave preparedness. By taking simple precautions, we can all help to minimize the risks associated with this period of extreme heat and ensure the safety and wellbeing of our communities. Staying informed and taking proactive steps is crucial in protecting yourself and vulnerable individuals during this heatwave.