UK issues yellow heat‑health alert as temperatures approach 30 °C

The UK Health Security Agency has issued a yellow heat‑health alert for London, the South East, the East of England and the East Midlands. The alert runs from mid‑June (June 17/18) until June 22/23 and is intended to help health and social‑care services prepare for unusually warm weather that could affect vulnerable groups such as older adults, young children and those with pre‑existing conditions.

Meteorologists expect temperatures to rise steadily, with forecasts of 28 °C in many parts of England and isolated spots in the southeast possibly nearing 30 °C by Friday. The warm spell is driven by a high‑pressure system moving north from continental Europe, bringing higher humidity and a chance of thunderstorms. Officials advise staying hydrated, avoiding prolonged sun exposure and keeping indoor spaces cool.

The alert highlights the potential for increased demand on health services and underscores broader concerns about a hotter summer ahead, as the Met Office notes a higher likelihood of above‑average temperatures for the season.