A yellow heat health warning has been issued for the West Midlands, with officials warning that temperatures could reach up to 30C over the weekend. The alert, from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) in partnership with the Met Office, is in place from 9am on Friday, July 24, until 9am on Sunday, July 26.
Temperatures Forecast to Hit Highs
Temperatures across the West Midlands are expected to reach the mid to high 20s, with a possibility of 30C in some areas. The yellow alert also covers the East Midlands, East of England, London, South East, and South West. The warning is intended to provide early notice to the health and social care sector, emergency responders, and government departments when adverse temperatures are likely to impact public health.
Drought Declared in North Wales and Upper Severn
The alert comes as drought was officially declared in North Wales and the Upper Severn, following record dry conditions, heatwaves, and wildfires. This marks the first drought declaration in the UK this summer. The country has received just three per cent of its average July rainfall, leading to hosepipe bans for 23 million customers, with suppliers warning restrictions may remain all summer.
Wildfires and Dry Conditions Across UK
Wildfires have been raging in several parts of England, while Scotland has experienced a major wildfire in the Cairngorms. The Republic of Ireland has also imposed a nationwide hosepipe ban. These conditions follow last year's drought summer, with scientists attributing the increasing frequency of extreme weather to human-caused climate change, primarily from burning fossil fuels.
Weekend Weather Outlook
Met Office forecaster Craig Snell said: "Temperatures could reach 30C in parts of South East England on Friday, while parts of Scotland and Northern Ireland will see patches of cloud." He added that outbreaks of rain would move southwards on Saturday, spreading from Scotland and Northern Ireland into northern England and parts of Wales. By Sunday, temperatures are expected to turn "fresher" across much of the UK, with rain possible in areas that have seen little precipitation over recent weeks.
Travel Impact: Millions Hit the Roads
The heat alerts coincide with a busy period for travel, as millions of motorists are expected to take summer getaways. The AA estimates around 6.3 million drivers plan road trips of more than 100 miles between Friday and Thursday. The Port of Dover is preparing for another busy weekend but has implemented measures to smooth delays caused by new EU border checks.
