UK emergency services see record 999 call surge during heatwave

Emergency services in Wales and the South West of England reported a sharp increase in demand as a heatwave pushed temperatures above 36 °C. The Welsh Ambulance Service logged more than 400 additional calls per day, while the South Western Ambulance Service recorded over 5,200 999 calls in a single day – the highest level ever recorded for the region. Calls ranged from serious medical emergencies to non‑critical issues such as sunburn, mild dehydration and people feeling overheated.

Both services urged the public to reserve 999 for life‑threatening situations and to seek advice from NHS 111 or pharmacies for less urgent concerns. Officials highlighted the risk of dehydration, heat‑related falls and respiratory problems, and warned about dangers of swimming in cold water despite warm air temperatures. The surge placed “exceptional pressure” on ambulance crews and prompted calls for sensible heat‑wave precautions, including staying hydrated, using sunscreen and checking on vulnerable individuals.