The Met Office forecasts a high of 32C in London at 4pm on Sunday, August 9, as the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued a yellow heat alert covering the capital and most of England. The alert, in force until mid-next week, warns of "significant impacts" across health and social care services, including a potential rise in deaths among vulnerable groups.
Weekend temperature outlook
Saturday will see temperatures reach 29C in London and 27C in surrounding commuter towns. Sunday is set to be hotter, with central London basking in 32C and the south-east coast approaching 30C, according to weather maps published at 2am on Friday, August 7.
The Met Office weekend forecast states: "Rain across northern Scotland through the weekend. Warm and sunny elsewhere. Turning hot in the south. Dry for most on Monday with temperatures on the very warm to hot side." No weather warnings are in place, but the UKHSA alert applies to most of England, excluding the north west and north east.
Health alert details and risks
The UKHSA alert warns of specific risks, including: a rise in deaths, particularly among those aged 65 and over or with underlying health conditions, with possible impacts on younger age groups; increased demand for health services; internal temperatures in hospitals and care homes potentially exceeding recommended thresholds; workforce performance affected by heat; overheating in indoor environments raising risks for vulnerable people living independently; and a potential increase in water-related incidents, including cold-water shock and drowning.
Officials emphasize that "significant impacts are possible across health and social care services due to the high temperatures," urging the public to stay hydrated, check on vulnerable neighbors, and avoid strenuous activity during peak heat.
