What Is an Amber Heat Health Alert and How Can Vulnerable People Stay Safe?

Amber heat health alerts have been issued across large parts of England as the country prepares for a serious heatwave this weekend. The UK Health Security Agency, known as the UKHSA, says the heat could have a big effect on health and care services. Temperatures are expected to reach as high as 33°C by Monday, putting many people at risk. The alerts are in place from midday on Thursday, June 18, until 8pm on Tuesday, June 23.

The UKHSA issued amber alerts for the east, south-east, and south-west of England, as well as the Midlands. Temperatures are set to climb above 30°C in the south-east by Friday, with East Anglia reaching 32°C on Sunday. The mercury will keep rising, with a sweltering 33°C expected on Monday with no sign of a break from the heat.

England uses a color-coded alert system — yellow, amber, or red — to warn people about dangerous heat. Yellow alerts mean most people will be fine, but those who are very vulnerable may struggle. An amber alert is more serious. It means the heat is expected to affect the whole health service and that the entire population could be at risk, requiring a coordinated response from services across the country.

Some groups of people are more at risk from extreme heat than others. According to the NHS, older people — especially women over the age of 75 — are among the most vulnerable, along with those who live alone or in a care home. People with long-term illnesses such as heart disease, lung conditions, diabetes, or Parkinson's disease are also at higher risk. Babies, very young children, people with Alzheimer's disease, and those dependent on alcohol or drugs need extra care as well.

The heat can cause serious health problems if people are not careful. Not drinking enough water can lead to dehydration, and overheating can make symptoms worse for people with heart or breathing problems. Heat exhaustion happens when the body gets too hot and loses too much water and salt. Signs of heat exhaustion include tiredness, dizziness, headaches, feeling sick, sweating a lot, and being very thirsty.

If someone shows signs of heat exhaustion, it is important to act quickly. The NHS advises moving the person to a cool place and removing any clothing that is not needed. Give them cool water or a sports drink, and cool their skin by spraying cool water on them or fanning them. If they do not feel better within 30 minutes, heat exhaustion can turn into heatstroke, which is a life-threatening condition that needs emergency help.

There are several things everyone can do to stay safe in the heat. The NHS recommends staying out of the sun as much as possible, especially between 11am and 3pm when it is strongest. People should wear sunscreen, a hat, and light clothing, and avoid exercise, alcohol, caffeine, and hot drinks. Choosing cold food and drinks can also help keep the body cool.

Keeping homes cool is just as important as staying cool outdoors. Closing windows during the day helps block out the hot air, and opening them at night — once temperatures have dropped — lets cool air in. Electric fans can also help, but the NHS says they are most useful when the temperature is below 35°C. Taking these simple steps can make a real difference during a dangerous heatwave.