An amber heat warning has been issued from tomorrow with temperatures set to rise for a week-long heatwave.
The Met Office’s warning is in effect from midday today until Tuesday, 23 June.
Brighton and Hove is set to avoid the worst of the heat this week – in some areas of England, temperatures could climb higher than 30C tomorrow, while here a relatively cool 24C is forecast by the Met Office.
But next week, the Met Office says Brighton and Hove could see similar temperatures, with 31C currently forecast on Monday and Tuesday.
NHS Surrey and Sussex says these conditions could have a wider impact on the population and place additional pressure on health services.
Professor Andrew Rhodes, Joint Chief Medical Officer at NHS Surrey and Sussex, said:
“Hot weather can pose serious health risks, especially for older people, babies and young children, and those living with long-term health conditions.
“During periods of prolonged high temperatures, there can be an increase in heat-related illness and additional pressure on health and care services.
“We encourage everyone to take sensible precautions to stay well in the heat and to look out for people who may be more vulnerable.
“Simple measures such as drinking plenty of fluids, keeping cool indoors and avoiding the midday sun can make a real difference.”
It advises:
• keep your home cool by closing windows and curtains in rooms that face the sun
• if you do go outside, wear suitable clothing, including a hat and sunglasses where appropriate, seek shade and apply sunscreen regularly
• avoid being in the sun during the hottest part of the day, between 11am and 3pm
• if you are planning physical activity, try to do it during cooler parts of the day, such as the morning or evening
• know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke, and what to do if you or someone else experiences them.
Services available include:
• Pharmacies – a good first point of contact for health advice and over-the-counter medicines
• GP practices – if you need medical advice or think you may need to see a doctor
• NHS 111 online at www.111.nhs.uk, which can help direct you to the most appropriate service (for children under five years old, please call 111 instead)
• NHS 111 by phone, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, where trained advisers can help you get the care you need in the right place
• Walk-in centres and urgent treatment centres – visit www.nhs.uk for details
