The West Midlands, East Midlands, South East, South West, London, and East of England will be under a red heat-health alert.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued a red heat-health alert (HHA) for 6 regions of England. The West Midlands, East Midlands, South East, South West, London, and East of England will be under a red heat-health alert from 1am on Wednesday 24 June until 11pm on Thursday 25 June.
In addition, an amber alert has been issued for the North West, North East, and Yorkshire and the Humber for the same period.
This is the second time a red HHA has been issued, the first having been issued in July 2022.
A red heat-health alert indicates that a severe heatwave could have impacts beyond health and social care with potential effects on transport systems, food, water, energy supplies and businesses, and indicates a risk to life for even the healthy population.
Dr Agostinho Sousa, Head of Extreme Events and Health Protection at UKHSA
:
Very hot weather is forecast across large parts of England in the coming days and we are urging health and social care services across the country to ensure they are prepared. It is vitally important that people understand the risk posed by high temperatures like these, and take steps to keep themselves and their friends, families and neighbours safe.
A red heat health alert indicates a risk to life for even the healthy population, but simple actions like staying hydrated, avoiding the sun during the hottest part of the day, and keeping your home cool can make a big difference. It’s also important to look out for others, especially elderly relatives, neighbours, and those with underlying health conditions, to make sure they are aware of the forecast and following the necessary advice.
UKHSA guidance on staying safe in hot weather is available online. There you can find a full list of the groups who are especially at risk, as well as advice on keeping yourself and others safe during periods of hotter weather, such as:
- keeping your home cool by closing windows and curtains in rooms that face the sun
- look out for those who may struggle to keep themselves cool and hydrated – older people, those with underlying conditions and those who live alone are particularly at risk
- stay cool indoors by closing curtains on rooms that face the sun – and remember that it may be cooler outdoors than indoors
- drink plenty of fluids and avoid excess alcohol
- never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, especially infants, young children or animals
- check that fridges, freezers and fans are working properly
- try to avoid direct sunlight, especially between 11am and 3pm when UV levels are highest – if you do go outside, cover up with suitable clothing, such as an appropriate hat and sunglasses, and seek shade and apply sunscreen regularly
- walk in the shade, apply sunscreen and wear a wide-brimmed hat, if you have to go out in the heat
- avoid physical exertion in the hottest parts of the day
- make sure you take water with you if you are travelling
- take care and make sure to follow local safety advice if you are going into the water to cool down
- check medicines can be stored according to the instructions on the packaging
- if you are going to do a physical activity (for example, exercising or walking the dog), plan to do these during times of the day when it is cooler, such as the morning or evening – also check weather forecasts to see when it will be cooler
More information on common symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke and what to do if you or someone else experiences them are available on NHS.UK.
What about the workplace being hot?
According to the TUC, it usually accepted that people work best at a temperature between 16°C and 24°C, although this can vary depending on the kind of work being done.
The Chartered Institute of Building Services Engineers1 recommends the following temperatures for different working areas:
- Heavy work in factories: 13°C
- Light work in factories: 16°C
- Hospital wards and shops: 18°C
- Offices and dining rooms: 20°C
When the workplace gets too hot it is more than just an issue about comfort. If the temperature goes too high then it can become a health and safety issue. If people get too hot, they risk dizziness, fainting, or even heat cramps. In very hot conditions the body’s blood temperature rises.
If the blood temperature rises above 39 °C, there is a risk of heat stroke or collapse2. Delirium or confusion can occur above 41°C. Blood temperatures at this level can prove fatal and even if a worker does recover, they may suffer irreparable organ damage
Heat can lead to a loss of concentration and increased tiredness, which means that workers are more likely to put themselves or others at risk. High temperatures mean there is an increase in the likelihood of accidents due to reduced concentration; slippery, sweaty palms as well as an increase of discomfort of some personal protective gear which can result in reduced protection through inappropriate usage or non-usage.
The legal position
An employer must provide a working environment which is, as far as is reasonably practical, safe and without risks to health.
In addition, employers have to assess risks and introduce any necessary prevention or control measures.
…there is no maximum temperature for workers.
Unfortunately there is no maximum temperature for workers, although the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations state the temperature inside workplace buildings must be ‘reasonable’.
Where do the unions stand?
Trade unions want to see a legal maximum temperature for indoor work of 30°C (27°C for those doing strenuous work), so that employers and workers know when action must be taken.
This is intended as an absolute maximum rather than an indication that regular indoor work at just below 30°C would be acceptable.
There should also be a legal duty on employers to protect outside workers by providing sun protection, water, and to organise work so that employees are not outside during the hottest part of the day.
PAYadvice.UK 23/6/2026