UK health agency issues yellow heat alert until July 11

Health officials have issued an extended heat-health alert across much of England as the country prepares for a significant and prolonged period of hot weather expected to begin this weekend. The UK Health Security Agency activated a yellow-level alert, which began at midday on Saturday, July 4, and now covers the East Midlands, West Midlands, East of England, London, the South East, and the South West. The alert is currently in effect until next Saturday, July 11.

The warning indicates a heightened risk to vulnerable populations, including older adults and those with pre-existing health conditions. Officials warn of increased pressure on health and social care services and a greater potential for water-related incidents. The alert follows an unprecedented heatwave in late June that set a new provisional UK June temperature record of 37.7 degrees Celsius in Norfolk.

Forecasters from the Met Office say high pressure building from the Azores will bring settled, dry, and sunny conditions starting Saturday, with temperatures rising steadily through the weekend. The warmest conditions are expected from Monday, with temperatures across much of England and Wales likely to peak during...