NewsUK NewsHeatwaveThe UK Health Security Agency has issued Red ‘heat health’ alert over risk to transport as well as ‘food, water and energy supplies’ as temperatures set to hit 38C this week12:57, 22 Jun 2026Updated 13:08, 22 Jun 2026Britain has issued only its second ever ‘heat-health’ Red Alert over the coming heatwave, with hospitals and social care facilities given a warning to 'be prepared'‌The UK Health Security Agency has put six regions under the red heat-health alert from 1am on Wednesday until 11pm on Thursday. These are the West Midlands, East Midlands, South East, South West, London and East of England. An amber alert has been issued for the North West, North East, and Yorkshire and the Humber for the same period.‌Health chiefs are warning NHS and social care services to be ‘prepared’ insisting that forecast temperatures of up to 38C pose a risk to life for ‘even the healthy population’.‌Dr Agostinho Sousa, head of extreme events at the UKHSA, said: “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 (HHA) 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. It indicates a risk to life for even the healthy population. The UKHSA has issued a set of guidelines to help people stay safe in the coming days and protect their families.‌Dr Sousa added: “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:Article continues belowUKHSA guidance on staying safe in the heat includes:Keep your home cool by closing windows and curtains in rooms that face the sunLook out for those who may struggle to keep themselves cool and hydrated such as older people, those with underlying conditions and people who live alone are particularly at riskStay cool indoors by closing curtains on rooms that face the sunDrink plenty of fluids and avoid excess alcoholNever leave children or animals in a closed, parked vehicleCheck that fridges, freezers and fans are working properlyTry to avoid direct sunligh especially between 11am and 3pm when UV levels are highestIf you do go outside, cover up with suitable clothing, such as an appropriate hat and sunglasses, and seek shade and apply sunscreen regularlyWalk in the shade, apply sunscreen and wear a wide-brimmed hat if you have to go out in the heatAvoid physical exertion in the hottest parts of the dayMake sure you take water with you if you are travellingTake care and make sure to follow local safety advice if you are going into the water to cool downCheck medicines can be stored according to the instructions on the packagingIt comes after the Met Office issued its own aamber alert for extreme heat on Monday and Tuesday which was then extended until at least the end of Thursday. Temperatures will be in the high 30s for much of the country from tomorrow. This week temperatures in the UK are expected to reach a record 38C or 39C. The current June record is 35.6C.Choose Daily Mirror as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.‌NHSMet OfficeHeatwaveHospitals