A Met Office RED Extreme Heat Alert came into effect this morning (Wednesday 24th June) and has now been extended until 11:59pm on Thursday (25th June).
A further AMBER Alert remains in place between 12am and 11.59pm on Friday (26th June).
These conditions may change and advice and updates can be checked on the Met Office website.
Latest updates (most recent first):
3pm 24/6/26
“People often underestimate just how dangerous hot weather can be.”
Ben Pallante, West Midlands Ambulance Service HART & Special Operations Manager, said: “People often underestimate just how dangerous hot weather can be. Every year, we see patients become seriously unwell because they have not recognised the warning signs of heat-related illness. This is not simply about feeling uncomfortable. Extreme heat can be life-threatening, particularly for older people, young children, those with underlying health conditions and anyone spending long periods outdoors.
“When temperatures rise, ambulance services often see an increase in demand as more people call 999 needing urgent medical help. Many of these incidents are preventable. We are increasing operational resources and putting additional staff on shift to help manage any increase in demand over the coming days, but we are asking everyone to play their part by taking simple steps to protect themselves and those around them.”
With temperatures soaring, West Midlands Ambulance Service have issued advice on keeping cool:
Stay cool and hydrated
Do
- Drink plenty of fluids
- Wear sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses when outside
- Wear light, loose clothing – cotton or linen are ideal in warm weather.
- Cool your skin with water
- Take it slow and avoid strenuous activity
- Stay in the shade outside, especially between 11am and 3pm when it’s the hottest
Do not
- Drink excessive amounts of alcohol as it has a dehydrating effect on the body
- Spend long periods in sun during the hottest part of day between 11am -3pm
Tues 23rd June
CrossCountry is advising customers to only travel if necessary until Thursday 25 June due to the extreme heat warnings affecting large parts of England and Wales.
