The Met Office has issued a rare red weather alert for extreme heat covering Birmingham, Solihull, parts of the Black Country, and Coventry, starting at 9am on Wednesday and lasting until 9pm on Thursday. The alert warns of record-breaking temperatures that could rise above 38°C, with significant impacts on health, travel, and infrastructure.
Record-Breaking Heat Expected
Forecasters have stated there is “growing confidence” that this week could break the record for the hottest June temperature of 35.6°C, set in 1976 in Southampton. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) urged people to expect significant impacts across health and social care services, along with a rise in deaths, particularly among those aged 65 and over or with health conditions.
What the Red Warning Means
A Met Office Red Weather Warning for Extreme Heat is the highest level of alert issued in the UK. It signals that a severe, potentially historic heatwave is occurring or imminent, posing a widespread threat to health, daily life, and infrastructure. Unlike lower-level alerts, a Red Warning means even fit, healthy people are at risk of severe heat-related illnesses like heatstroke.
The extreme heat could also cause problems for rail, road, and air travel, with the possibility of some tarmac melting, according to the Met Office. Widespread infrastructure failure, including power grid issues, is possible.
Health and Safety Advice
The Met Office advises: drink plenty of fluids, keep out of the sun, and avoid any exercise between 11am and 3pm when the sun is strongest. Close curtains in rooms that face the sun. If you go out, take water with you, stay in the shade, wear sunscreen, and a wide-brimmed hat.
The UKHSA warns of a rise in deaths, especially among older people and those with health conditions. It is crucial to check on isolated neighbours, family members, and pets. Know the signs of heat exhaustion: heavy sweating, dizziness, rapid pulse, headache, and nausea. If someone shows these signs, move them to a cool place, get them to drink water, and cool their skin. If they don’t improve within 30 minutes, or become confused or lose consciousness, call 999 immediately—this is heatstroke, a medical emergency.
Travel and Infrastructure Impacts
Travel disruption is highly likely, with significant delays, cancellations, and road closures. The AA has issued an urgent warning about the unusual sight of melting tarmac on UK roads this week. Avoid travelling unless essential. If you must drive, ensure your car has plenty of water, coolant, and a fully charged phone.
Tropical nights are expected, with temperatures overnight remaining above 20°C, meaning the body gets no chance to cool down. Open windows at night once the air outside is cooler than inside. Be wary of cold-water shock if you go to rivers, lakes, or the coast to cool down; enter the water slowly and remember to 'Float to Live' if in trouble.
