The first amber Heat-Health Alert for the South East issued by The UK Health Security Agency’s (UKHSA) new Weather-Health Alerting System, is in force and extended to 9am Tuesday, 13th June.
The guidance comes as forecasters say temperatures will rise sharply over the weekend - possibly peaking around 30°C in parts of England.
Meteorologists also predict night-time temperatures will stay well above average in places, with humid conditions and thunderstorms for some during this period as warm air is drawn in from the south.
You can read what the different alerts mean here
“...keep a close eye on young children, the elderly and those with certain health conditions, such as respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, who are particularly vulnerable to the effects of hotter weather”
Kent County Council (KCC) Director of Public Health, Dr Anjan Ghosh said: “With the first spell of hot weather of 2023 on the way we are reminding everyone to stay hydrated and cool while enjoying the early summer sunshine.
“We’re also urging residents to keep a close eye on young children, the elderly and those with certain health conditions, such as respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, who are particularly vulnerable to the effects of hotter weather.
“Other simple steps to stay safe include wearing sunscreen, UV glasses and loose, comfortable clothing. Try not to travel in the heat of the day if possible and always plan ahead, every single journey, including carrying water, food and any medications you need in your car.”
Eileen Sills, Chief Nurse at NHS Kent and Medway, said: “However much we might like the sun, we know that it can have detrimental effects on our health, especially for the young, our elderly residents and those who are most vulnerable.
“By taking simple precautions, such as staying hydrated and finding shade during the hottest parts of the day, you can significantly reduce the risk of becoming ill and needing the services of the NHS.
“Please also do check in on your vulnerable neighbours, families and friends to make sure they are aware of the forecast and following the necessary advice.”
Drinking plenty of water is a key way to stay well in warmer weather
Other key tips to stay well in warmer weather include:
- Drinking plenty of fluids like water and limiting how much alcohol you consume
- Closing the curtains on rooms that face the sun to keep indoor spaces cooler
- Never leaving anyone, particularly babies, young children, and the elderly, and also animals, in a closed, parked vehicle, and
- Being aware that the sea is still cold at this time of year so taking care and following local safety advice when going into the water to cool down.
Should you become unwell, unless it is an emergency, please remember to use 111 as your first point of contact for medical support. By phoning 111 or visiting 111.nhs.uk, you will be directed to the right service for you. In an emergency, always call 999.
You can also visit Kent and Medway Integrated Care System’s website – https://www.stopthinkchoose.co.uk – which lists local services, such as pharmacies and urgent treatment centres.
The NHS website – www.nhs.uk – provides advice and guidance throughout the year on how to keep fit and well, including staying safe in hot weather
For more tips about staying safe and healthy at this time of year, visit the Met Office’s Weather Ready page here: WeatherReady - Met Office
More information about what KCC does to protect Kent communities during a heatwave is available here
You can sign up for UKHSA Weather Health Alerts here and specify what region you would like to receive alerts for.
