UK health agency issues amber alerts heatwave hits England

Health officials have issued heat health alerts across parts of England as forecasters warn of a prolonged and uncomfortably humid heatwave this weekend, bringing a heightened risk to vulnerable groups and potential disruption. The UK Health Security Agency has activated amber alerts for London, the South East, South West, and East of England, warning of significant impacts on health and social care services that could result in a rise in deaths. These alerts are in effect from the afternoon of Thursday, June 18, until 8 p.m. on Tuesday, June 23. A separate yellow alert, indicating likely minor impacts, covers the East and West Midlands.

This period of intense heat is expected to peak over the coming days. Southern and eastern England saw temperatures in the high 20s Celsius on Thursday. Forecasters predict that Friday will bring highs of 30 to 31 degrees Celsius in southeastern areas, including London. The weekend is forecast to bring more settled conditions nationwide, allowing temperatures to climb further. Southern and eastern England could see highs of 32 degrees Celsius on Sunday and potentially 33 degrees on Monday, with some areas meeting the official three-day heatwave...