TL;DR
Amber heat-health alerts issued by the UK Health Security Agency cover London, the South East, East Midlands, East of England and West Midlands until 5pm Thursday. The level indicates weather likely to affect the whole population with raised risk for vulnerable groups.
Amber heat-health alerts issued by the UK Health Security Agency cover London, the South East, East Midlands, East of England and West Midlands until 5pm Thursday. The alert level indicates weather likely to affect the whole population, with a particular risk for older adults, infants and people with long-term conditions.
How the heat-health alert system works
UKHSA operates a four-level heat-health alert system: green, yellow, amber and red. The level reflects the expected effect on health rather than a specific temperature threshold, with input from the Met Office on the likelihood and duration of high temperatures.
Amber alerts indicate weather likely to affect the entire population, with increased risk for vulnerable groups. Red alerts, used during the 2022 40C heatwave, signal a national emergency in which significant impacts are expected even among the fit and well.
Where the alerts apply
Amber alerts cover London, the South East, East Midlands, East of England and West Midlands. Yellow alerts extend across most of the rest of England, including the North East, North West, South West and Yorkshire and the Humber.
Northern Ireland, Wales and Scotland operate their own heat-health systems. The Met Office issues weather warnings for these countries while public health bodies coordinate health-specific advice.
Who is most at risk
Older adults, particularly those aged 75 and over, are at higher risk because the body's ability to regulate temperature reduces with age. People with chronic cardiovascular, respiratory or kidney conditions are also more vulnerable.
Infants and young children are at higher risk because their bodies overheat more easily. Pregnant women, people with mental health conditions and those taking certain medications also feature in UKHSA's vulnerable groups guidance.
Practical steps NHS guidance recommends
Stay indoors during the hottest part of the day, typically between 11am and 3pm. Close curtains on south- and west-facing windows during the day and open windows at night when temperatures drop.
Drink plenty of water and avoid excessive alcohol. NHS guidance discourages strenuous exercise in the hottest part of the day and recommends checking on vulnerable neighbours or relatives.
When to call for help
Symptoms of heat exhaustion include tiredness, dizziness, headache, nausea, muscle cramps and rapid pulse. Cool the person and give fluids; symptoms typically improve within 30 minutes.
Heatstroke is more serious. Signs include confusion, a temperature above 40C, dry skin without sweating and loss of consciousness. Call 999 immediately and cool the person while waiting for help.
Key facts
- Four-level alert system: green, yellow, amber, red.
- Amber alerts cover five English regions.
- Older adults and infants are at higher risk.
- NHS recommends staying inside 11am to 3pm.
- Heatstroke signs include confusion and 40C+ temperature.
FAQ
What does an amber heat-health alert mean?
Weather conditions likely to affect the entire population, with raised risk for vulnerable groups including older adults, infants and people with long-term conditions. It is the second-highest of UKHSA's four alert levels.
Where do the current alerts apply?
Amber alerts cover London, the South East, East Midlands, East of England and West Midlands. Yellow alerts extend across most of the rest of England.
How can I keep cool at home?
Close curtains on south- and west-facing windows during the day, open windows at night, drink plenty of water and stay out of the hottest part of the day between 11am and 3pm. Avoid strenuous exercise.
When should I call 999 for heat illness?
Call 999 if symptoms persist after 30 minutes of cooling, if the person becomes confused, has a temperature above 40C, has stopped sweating or has lost consciousness. These can indicate heatstroke, which is a medical emergency.
