The update follows one of the hottest May days on record in the UK
Beaches across the region were packed with sunseekers(Image: Getty Images)
The weather has been nothing short of scorching for the last few days, peaking yesterday on the bank holiday. However, the extended heat may be dangerous for some, as an update on the heat health warnings comes through from the UK Health Security Agency.
As the hottest May day is behind us, the UKHSA estimates the warm weather will continue for a while longer. In an update to the already issued yellow heat health alert, it has been extended.
The duration of the alert has been extended by 24 hours across the country. For the North East, the warning remains in place from 26 May 2026 at 10am until 28 May 2026 at 5pm.
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The warning means that minor impacts are likely across health and social services, including:
- increased use of healthcare services by vulnerable people
- greater risk to life of vulnerable people
- increased potential for indoor environments to become very warm
Dr Anya Gopfert, Consultant in Health Protection at UKHSA, said: “We know that even moderate heat can lead to serious health problems, especially for older people and those with certain health conditions, so it’s important that everyone takes simple precautions while enjoying the warm weather over the coming days.
“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 forecasts and are following the necessary advice.”
The North West, along with Yorkshire and the Humber, is also under yellow weather warnings for the same amount of time. Elsewhere in England, the warnings are upgraded to amber, again for the same length of time.
There are simple steps you can take to keep yourself and others safe during periods of hot weather, such as:
- keeping your home cool by closing windows and curtains in rooms that face the sun
- if you do go outside, cover up with suitable clothing, such as an appropriate hat and sunglasses, and seek shade and apply sunscreen regularly
- keeping out of the sun at the hottest time of the day, between 11am and 3pm
- 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
- knowing the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke and what to do if you or someone else has them
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