Amber Health Alert Issued For This Weekend

Met Office issues rare amber alert warning as temperatures rise across the area.

The Met Office have issued a rare amber heat health alert to the East Midlands after the area could see some exceptionally high temperatures during the current heatwave.

The warning is valid from midnight on Sunday and lasts for the duration of the day. 

There is the possibility temperatures could exceed 30 degrees.

What does this mean and what can I expect?

• Population-wide adverse health effects are likely to be experienced, not limited to those most vulnerable to extreme heat, leading to potential serious illness or danger to life. Government advice is that 999 services should be used in emergencies only; seek advice from 111 if you need non-emergency health advice.
• Substantial changes in working practices and daily routines likely to be required
• Significantly more people are likely to visit coastal areas, lakes and rivers leading to increased risk of water safety incidents
• Delays on roads and road closures are possible, along with delays and cancellations to rail and air travel, with potential for significant welfare issues for those who experience even moderate delays

Tips to help you and your pets stay cool include:

• Having cold showers or baths
• Keeping doors closed and blinds closed
• Using ice in water and cool drinks
• Avoiding peak heat and sunshine (11am-3pm)
• keep hydrated by drinking plenty of water
• When outside stay in the shade as much as possible
• Exercise in the early morning or evening - same applies to walking dogs
• Use a small paddling pool for your dog to cool off in
• Chill dogs water
• Have a cool wet mat for them to lay on.