South West heat-health alert issued as temperatures rise
NewsDevon NewsWeatherIt is going to warm up again07:24, 07 Jul 2026Another heat-health alert has been issued for the South West as temperatures are set to rise again this week. The UK Health Security Agency. . .
NewsDevon NewsWeatherIt is going to warm up again07:24, 07 Jul 2026Another heat-health alert has been issued for the South West as temperatures are set to rise again this week. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said an amber heat-health warning will be in place across the region from 9am on Wednesday, July 8 until 9pm on Sunday, July 12. Currently, it said there is an existing yellow heat-health alert for the East Midlands, West Midlands, East of England, London, South East and South West which will remain in place until Wednesday when the warning escalates. The UKHSA warned that rising temperatures this week may increase health risks, particularly for vulnerable groups. It comes just weeks after the South West and the UKfaced record-breaking temperaturesand arare red heat-health alert. While the UKHSA said the current forecast does not indicate temperatures will be as high as they were at the end of June, the heat may still have an impact on some. According to the Met Office forecast, several areas across Devon, Bristol, Somerset and Gloucestershire are predicted to reach temperatures above 30°C. Plymouthand Cornwall are also expected to bake under temperatures in the high 20°Cs, with several areas reaching 28°C or 29°C in the coming days. Dr Agostinho Sousa, Head of Extreme Events and Health Protection at UKHSA, said: "Sustained periods of warmweathercan result in serious negative health outcomes across the population, so it is important that everyone takes sensible precautions while enjoying the sun. Article continues below"Based on the current forecast, we don’t currently expect the health impacts to be as high as the heatwave we saw at the end of June but older adults and those with pre-existing conditions are still at risk. "If you have friends, family, or neighbours who are more vulnerable, it is important to check in on them and ensure they are aware of the forecast and are following the necessary advice. "Simple steps such as staying hydrated, avoiding the sun during the hottest part of the day, and keeping your home cool are effective ways to help keep yourself and others safe during periods of hot weather. "Choose Devon Live as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value. Weather