The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has escalated its heat-health alert (HHA) for the South West from yellow to amber, warning that high temperatures pose an increased risk to vulnerable people and reminding health and social care services to prepare as temperatures continue to rise.
An amber Heat-Health Alert is now in place for the South West from 10am on Tuesday 26 May until 5pm on Thursday 28 May 2026.
Under the UKHSA and Met Office Weather-Health Alerting System, an amber Heat-Health Alert means impacts are likely to include:
- Increased use of health care services by vulnerable populations
- An increased risk to health for individuals aged over 65 years or those with pre-existing health conditions, including respiratory and cardiovascular diseases
Dr Chaam Klinger, Consultant in Health Protection at UKHSA South West, said: “We want those living in and visiting the South West, particularly for half term, to enjoy the good weather this week. However, we know that even moderate heat can lead to serious health problems, especially for older people and those with certain health conditions, so it’s important that everyone takes simple precautions while enjoying the warm weather over the coming days.
“If you have friends, family or neighbours who are more vulnerable, it is important to check in on them and ensure they are aware of the forecasts and are following the necessary advice.”
The South West’s coastline, rivers and open water also present additional risks during hot weather. Cold-water shock can affect even strong swimmers when entering cold water on a hot day, and water-related incidents typically increase during periods of high temperature.
People are advised to swim only at designated, supervised locations and to keep a close eye on children near any open water.
How to Stay Safe During Hot Weather
There are simple steps you can take to keep yourself and others safe during periods of hot weather, including:
- Keeping your home cool by closing windows and curtains in rooms that face the sun
- If you go outside, wear suitable clothing such as a hat and sunglasses, seek shade and apply sunscreen regularly
- Keeping out of the sun during the hottest part of the day, between 11am and 3pm
- Planning physical activity, such as exercise or dog walking, during cooler parts of the day like the morning or evening
- Knowing the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke and what to do if someone is affected
The latest Heat-Health Alerts can be viewed on the UKHSA data dashboard.
Further advice on how heat affects the body and how to stay safe is available on the UKHSA blog.
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