Amber heat-health alert issued for Cheshire as temperatures climb towards 36C
Cheshire is covered by an amber heat-health alert from Tuesday as another spell of hot weather develops, with temperatures elsewhere in England forecast to reach around 36C later t
By The Guardian
Cheshire will be covered by an amber heat-health alert this week as temperatures rise across much of England and another widespread spell of hot weather develops.
The UK Health Security Agency has placed the North West under an amber alert from 9am on Tuesday, August 11, until 9pm on Friday, August 14.
Amber alerts are also in place across most other regions of England, while the North East is covered by a yellow alert.
The warning means significant impacts are considered likely across health and social care services because of the high temperatures.
UKHSA says there could be an increase in deaths, particularly among people aged 65 and over and those with existing health conditions, as well as increased demand on health services.
Hospitals and care homes may also experience unusually high indoor temperatures, while vulnerable people living independently could be at greater risk as homes become increasingly difficult to keep cool.
The alert comes as the Met Office forecasts temperatures to rise day by day following somewhat cooler conditions on Monday.
Much of southern and central England is expected to experience heatwave conditions, with temperatures reaching the mid-30s in some areas.
The hottest weather is currently expected on Thursday, when temperatures could reach around 36C in parts of the country.
High pressure is expected to become increasingly dominant, bringing widespread sunshine, while southerly and southeasterly winds draw warmer air towards the UK from continental Europe.
Although Cheshire may not experience the very highest temperatures forecast for southern and eastern England, the amber alert means the heat is still expected to be sufficient to create potential health impacts across the North West.
People are being advised to drink plenty of fluids, keep homes as cool as possible and limit prolonged exposure to strong sunshine, particularly between 11am and 3pm.
Curtains or blinds can be closed in rooms facing the sun, while anyone spending time outdoors is advised to carry water, seek shade and use suitable sun protection.
Residents are also encouraged to check on older relatives, neighbours and others who may be particularly vulnerable during periods of prolonged hot weather.
The Met Office expects Thursday to mark the peak of the heat. Very warm conditions could remain across southern areas on Friday before cooler air moves southwards from the North West and temperatures ease more widely during Saturday.