A Yellow heat health alert has been issued across the West Midlands by the Met Office, with health officials urging residents to take extra care amid rising temperatures.
The alert is in effect from 12pm on Friday 27 June until 6pm on Tuesday 1 July, and warns of potential health impacts and increased pressure on local healthcare services.
Solihull’s GPs and Public Health teams are calling on the public to look after themselves — and one another — as the spell of hot weather continues.
A Yellow alert signals that significant impacts on health and social care services are possible, including an increase in people seeking medical attention, difficulty maintaining safe temperatures in hospitals and care homes, and added strain on health and care workers.
While hot weather is welcomed by many, officials warn that it can pose serious risks to health, particularly for the elderly, those with long-term health conditions, and very young children. However, anyone can be affected by heat-related illness if precautions are not taken.
Health Advice from Officials
Residents are being urged to:
- Stay hydrated by drinking cold, non-alcoholic fluids regularly
- Avoid the sun between 11am and 3pm
- Refrain from strenuous activity during peak heat hours
- Check on vulnerable neighbours or family members each day
“Even those at peak physical fitness can quickly become unwell in this kind of heat,” a local health spokesperson warned. “It’s vital to take simple precautions to protect yourself and others.”
With continued high temperatures forecast, Public Health Solihull is encouraging people to take the heat seriously and remain alert for signs of heat exhaustion or dehydration.
Help and Support
Anyone in need of advice or support during the heatwave is encouraged to contact the Solihull Helpline on 0121 704 8080.
The Met Office and local authorities will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates if conditions worsen.