Met Office issue Amber heat-health warning for south-west

The UKHSA has advised the public to check in with elderly and vulnerable friends and family ahead of the high temperatures later this week. <i>(Image: Unsplash)</i>
The UKHSA has advised the public to check in with elderly and vulnerable friends and family ahead of the high temperatures later this week. (Image: Unsplash)
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Together with the Met Office, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued an amber heat-health alert for the south-west this week.

Alerts will be in place from 9am Wednesday, July 8, until Sunday, July 12, at 9pm.

The impact and likelihood of disruption are rated as 'likely', as temperatures are forecast to reach up to 33 degrees Celsius in some areas of Somerset later this week.

Met Office predictions forecast that the weather in Taunton will reach highs of 32C on Friday, Saturday and Sunday this week. Weston-Super-Mare is also predicted to hit 32C on Friday and Saturday, cooling slightly to 31C on Sunday.

Yeovil is expected to experience up to 33C on Friday and Saturday, before cooling down next week.

The UKHSA has stated on its website that the heat may cause "significant impacts", including increased demand on health and social care services, a rise in water‑related incidents, and the heat affecting the ability of the workforce to deliver services.

The public health body has also warned that the high temperatures can cause health and safety impacts, particularly among those aged 65 and over or with health conditions.

The UKHSA south-west has advised the public: "Check in on older friends, family, and neighbours, particularly those who live alone, who may struggle to keep themselves cool & hydrated during the hot weather."

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