Hot weather is expected to intensify across parts of England over the bank holiday weekend, with amber heat health alerts issued for the Midlands, eastern England and south east England.
The alerts run from Saturday to Monday as forecasters expect temperatures to climb and overnight conditions to remain unusually warm in some areas.
The UK Health Security Agency activated the alerts alongside the Met Office, with health services, care providers and local agencies preparing additional measures to support people most vulnerable to heat. Officials urged the public to prepare in advance, drink plenty of fluids and check in on family members, neighbours and friends who may need support.
The warm spell follows a settled weather pattern bringing extended periods of sunshine across much of the country. Although the formal alerts apply only to parts of England, temperatures across wider areas of the UK are expected to remain above average for late May.
When and where temperatures will peak
The alerts were in place on Friday 22 May ahead of the bank holiday weekend.
Forecasts suggest temperatures will rise through Saturday and Sunday before easing gradually into the start of the following week. The warmest conditions are expected across inland parts of the Midlands, eastern England and south east England, where light winds and prolonged sunshine could allow temperatures to approach levels more commonly associated with summer.
Coastal areas are expected to remain slightly cooler, although warm evenings may still develop in some locations. Forecasters also noted that warmer overnight temperatures can make heat feel more intense because buildings and homes have less opportunity to cool down.
What amber heat alerts mean
Amber heat health alerts are issued when weather conditions are expected to increase pressure on health and care services and create greater risks for vulnerable groups. The alert system supports coordinated planning across healthcare providers, councils and community organisations.
This may include additional welfare checks, pharmacy support, monitoring of care settings and public information campaigns designed to reduce heat related illness. Authorities stressed that the alerts are precautionary and intended to help people take simple steps before conditions become more difficult.
Who is most at risk
Health guidance highlights increased risks for:
- Older adults
- Babies and young children
- People with heart or breathing conditions
- Those taking medicines that affect hydration
- People who live alone
- Outdoor workers
- People in warm indoor environments
Heat can contribute to dehydration, tiredness and overheating more quickly than many people expect. Symptoms may include dizziness, headaches, weakness, nausea and shortness of breath. People who begin feeling unwell should move somewhere cooler, rest and drink water. Anyone with severe symptoms or worsening conditions should seek medical advice through NHS services.
Advice for staying safe during hot weather
Public health teams recommend straightforward actions to reduce heat related illness.
People are encouraged to:
- Drink water regularly throughout the day
- Limit alcohol intake during hotter periods
- Wear light clothing
- Stay in shaded areas where possible
- Avoid strenuous activity during the hottest hours
- Keep blinds or curtains closed during the day
- Open windows when outside temperatures become cooler
Parents and carers are advised never to leave children or animals in parked vehicles, even for short periods. People who rely on medication should also check whether storage advice changes during warmer weather.
Travel and outdoor plans may need adjustment
Warm conditions can affect travel networks and outdoor events across the bank holiday period. Rail operators may monitor track temperatures and apply temporary restrictions where needed. Drivers are encouraged to carry water, check tyre pressures and allow extra time for journeys.
Large outdoor events often introduce additional shade, water stations and first aid provision during periods of higher temperatures. Visitors attending concerts, sporting events or local festivals should check event guidance before travelling.
Workplaces and schools prepare for warmer conditions
Employers continue to follow health and safety guidance during warmer weather. Workplaces may increase ventilation, allow additional breaks and encourage staff to remain hydrated.
For people working outdoors, managers may adjust schedules where practical and provide shaded rest areas. Schools and childcare providers may also adapt outdoor activities, increase access to water and make greater use of indoor spaces during hotter parts of the day.
What happens next
Forecasters expect the warm weather to continue through much of the bank holiday weekend before conditions gradually ease. Authorities said they will continue monitoring temperatures and update advice if conditions change. For most people, the weekend will simply bring an opportunity to enjoy warmer weather.
Officials said planning ahead and taking simple precautions can help reduce pressure on health services and ensure that people stay safe while temperatures remain elevated.
