An Amber Heat Health Alert has been issued across the East Midlands as Lincolnshire prepares for soaring temperatures over the Bank Holiday weekend.
The upgraded alert, issued by the UK Health Security Agency, is in force from 2pm on Friday 22 May until 5pm on Wednesday 27 May.
Forecasters are predicting a prolonged spell of hot weather across the county, with temperatures expected to peak at 30°C on Bank Holiday Monday.
Current forecasts suggest:
- Friday — highs of 28°C, lows of 15°C
- Saturday — highs of 24°C, lows of 10°C
- Sunday — highs of 27°C, lows of 13°C
- Monday — highs of 30°C, lows of 14°C
- Tuesday — highs of 24°C, lows of 12°C
Health officials say significant impacts are likely across health and social care services during the hot spell, particularly affecting vulnerable people.
The Amber Alert indicates a medium likelihood and medium impact risk, with concerns over a potential rise in heat-related illness and deaths, especially among people aged over 65 and those with underlying health conditions.
NHS Lincolnshire Integrated Care Board is urging residents to stay safe in the sun, remain hydrated and regularly check in on elderly relatives, neighbours and vulnerable members of the community.
Officials warn that hospitals and care homes may struggle with overheating indoor temperatures, while the heat could also impact staffing, transport and power demand across the region.
The NHS is reminding people that heat exhaustion can quickly become dangerous if ignored.
Symptoms of heat exhaustion include:
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Heavy sweating
- Muscle cramps
- Feeling sick
- Extreme thirst and weakness
If left untreated, heat exhaustion can develop into heatstroke — a medical emergency where the body is no longer able to cool itself down.
Symptoms of heatstroke can include confusion, seizures, rapid breathing, a fast heartbeat and hot skin that is no longer sweating. Anyone suspected of suffering from heatstroke should be cooled immediately and 999 called without delay.
Residents are being advised to:
- Drink plenty of water
- Avoid direct sun between 11am and 3pm
- Wear light, loose-fitting clothing
- Use SPF30+ sunscreen with 5-star UVA protection
- Wear hats and UV-protective sunglasses
- Keep homes as cool as possible
Those considered most vulnerable include older people, babies and young children, people with heart, lung or kidney conditions, outdoor workers and those living in top-floor flats.
Anyone concerned about symptoms is advised to contact NHS 111.
Further advice is available online:
NHS Sun Safety Advice
NHS Heat Exhaustion and Heatstroke Advice
Cover photo: Christopher Lewis Photography
