Heat health alert updated for the South East

The yellow heat health alert is in effect from4PM on 28/05/2026 until 8PM on 30/05/2026 across the South East. The yellow alert has a matrix score of 8. This means:

Minor impacts are expected across health and social care 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
• water-related incidents may increase, including risks from cold-water shock and drowning

To see our page on protecting yourself from the risks of Extreme Summer Heat click here

Heat health alert updated for the South East

The amber heat health alert is in effect from 2PM on 22/05/2026 until 5PM on 27/05/2026 across the South East. The amber alert has a matrix score of 12. This means:

Significant impacts are likely across health and social care services due to the high temperatures, including:

water-related incidents may increase, including risks from cold-water shock and drowning

a rise in deaths, particularly among those aged 65 and over or with health conditions. There may also be impacts on younger age groups

likely increased demand on all health and social care services

internal temperatures in care settings (hospitals and care homes) may exceed the recommended threshold for clinical risk assessment

the heat affecting the ability of the workforce to deliver services

indoor environments overheating increasing the risk to vulnerable people living independently in community and care settings

issues managing medicines

staffing issues due to external factors (for example, affecting transport)

increased demand for power exceeding capacity

other sector starting to observe impacts (for example, travel delays)

There are currently no flood alerts or other expected risks to our community.

Whilst we have identified no community-wide risks, we advise residents to remain vigilant and mindful to protect themselves, their neighbours and our wider community. We should be aware of risks to individual households, such as scams, cybercrime and theft. Always stay aware, and use this opportunity to prepare ourselves for any potential problems.

Use the guidance on our website to protect yourselves.