Fresh heat-health alerts have been issued across parts of England as forecasters warn that temperatures could soar to 32C during an unusually early summer heatwave.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has placed yellow heat alerts across London, the South East and the East of England, warning that vulnerable people could face a 'greater risk to life' during the hot spell.
The 52-hour warnings came into force at 4pm on Thursday and are due to remain in place until 8pm on Saturday evening. Officials said the alerts were necessary because prolonged high temperatures could place additional strain on health and social care services.
According to theUKHSA, the hot weather may lead to an increase in hospital admissions and greater pressure on emergency responders, particularly among older people, young children and those with underlying health conditions.
Authorities also warned that indoor spaces could become dangerously warm, especially in care homes, hospitals and poorly ventilated buildings.
The agency said there was also concern about a rise in water-related incidents during the hot weather, including cases of cold-water shock and drowning as people seek relief in rivers, lakes and coastal areas.
Health officials described the warnings as unusual for this stage of the year. Heat-health alerts are generally more common between June and September, but the current temperatures have arrived earlier than expected.
TheMet Officeconfirmed earlier this week that the UK recorded its hottest May day on record after temperatures reached 35C at Heathrow and Kew Gardens.
The previous May temperature record of 32.8C was surpassed as southern England experienced intense sunshine and prolonged heat.
Forecasters also confirmed the warmest May overnight temperature ever recorded in the UK. Temperatures at Kenley Airfield failed to fall below 21.3C overnight, creating what meteorologists describe as a 'tropical night'.
Source: International Business Times UK
