An Amber heat health alert has been issued for Wolverhampton and the West Midlands with temperatures forecast to climb to more than 30C this weekend.
It will be in force from 12pm today (Friday 11 July, 2025) until 9am on Tuesday 14 July, 2025, with the warmest weather forecast to climb to over 30C over the next 48 hours.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) warns that the hot weather is likely to bring increased pressures on health and social care services, could lead to a possible rise in deaths – particularly among those aged 65 or over or with health conditions – and is a health risk to the wider population.
Councillor Obaida Ahmed, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Community, said: “While many people enjoy hot weather, high temperatures such as those forecast over the coming days can be dangerous, especially for people who may be particularly vulnerable such as older people, young children and those with serious illnesses.
“Everyone can enjoy the sun safely by keeping out of the heat at the hottest time of the day, avoiding sunburn and staying hydrated with plenty of cool, non-alcoholic drinks.
“Older people and those with long term illnesses are particularly vulnerable to the effects of very hot weather, so I’d urge people to look out for them and keep indoor areas as cool as possible.”
Top tips for being sun safe include:
try to keep out of the sun between 11am to 3pm
wear UV sunglasses, preferably wraparound, to reduce UV exposure to the eyes, walk in the shade, apply sunscreen of at least sun protection factor 15 with UVA protection
wear light, loose fitting cotton clothes, a hat and light scarf, which will help minimise the risk of sunburn
drink plenty of water – and note that sugary, alcoholic and caffeinated drinks can make you more dehydrated
look out for others especially vulnerable groups such as the older people, young children and babies and those with serious illnesses
never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, especially infants, young children or animals
avoid deep water, such as canals and lakes
keep bedroom and living space cool by closing the curtains on windows that receive the sun and opening windows at cooler times of the day and overnight. Turn off non-essential lights and electrical items as these generate heat
health and social care workers should regularly check on vulnerable patients, share sun safety messages, make sure room temperatures are set below 26°C and ensure patients have access to cold water and ice.
For more advice, please visit Heatwave: how to cope in hot weather.
To keep an eye on the weather forecast for Wolverhampton, visit Met Office.
There are 4 levels of warning deployed by UKHSA – Green, Yellow, Amber and Red – an amber warning means the whole health service is likely to be affected by the hot weather.
Among examples given by UKHSA are difficulties managing medicines, the ability of the workforce to deliver services and internal temperatures in care settings exceeding the recommended thresholds.