23 June 2026

People across Hampshire and Isle of Wight are being urged to take extra care during the current spell of exceptionally hot weather.  The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and the Met Office have issued red Heat-Health Alerts for London and the South East, alongside amber Extreme Heat Warnings, as temperatures are forecast to rise into the high 30s and could approach 40°C in some areas later this week.

Sara Courtney, Deputy Chief Nurse for Isle of Wight NHS Trust and Portsmouth Hospitals University NHS Trust said: “Extreme heat can affect anyone, but it poses a greater risk to older people, babies and young children, pregnant women, and people living with long-term health conditions such as heart disease, respiratory illness or diabetes. High temperatures can increase the risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion and heatstroke, and can also worsen existing health conditions.

“We encourage everyone to take simple steps to protect themselves and others – drink plenty of water, keep your home as cool as possible, wear sunscreen and loose-fitting clothing, limit alcohol intake, and check in on relatives, friends and neighbours who may be more vulnerable. By taking these precautions, we can all help to stay safe and reduce pressure on health and care services during this spell of hot weather.”

High temperatures and warm nights can make it difficult for the body to cool down and recover, increasing the risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Humid conditions are also expected to make the heat feel more uncomfortable than usual.

Who is most at risk?

Everyone should take precautions during very hot weather, but particular care should be taken by:

· Older people, especially those aged 65 and over

· Babies and young children

· People with long-term health conditions, including heart or respiratory disease

· Those taking medicines that affect hydration or body temperature

· People who live alone or are socially isolated

· Anyone spending long periods outdoors or undertaking strenuous physical activity

Top tips to stay safe in hot weather

  • Close curtains or blinds on windows that receive direct sunlight.
  • Keep windows closed during the hottest part of the day and open them later in the evening or overnight when temperatures fall.
  • Use fans if you have them, but remember they are less effective when temperatures become extremely high.
  • Spend time in cooler places such as libraries, shopping centres or community spaces if your home becomes too hot.

  • Drink plenty of fluids regularly, even if you do not feel thirsty.  
  • Avoid excess alcohol, which can contribute to dehydration.  
  • Carry water with you when travelling or spending time outdoors.

  • Try to avoid strenuous activity between 11am and 3pm, when the sun is strongest.
  • If you need to be outside, stay in the shade where possible and take frequent breaks.

  • Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing.
  • Use a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.
  • Apply sunscreen regularly and follow the instructions on the product.

  • Keep in touch with older relatives, neighbours and friends, particularly those living alone or with underlying health conditions.
  • Make sure they have enough water, food and any medicines they need.
  • Recognising heat-related illness

Early signs of heat exhaustion can include:

  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Feeling weak or tired
  • Excessive sweating
  • Nausea
  • Muscle cramps

If symptoms do not improve after cooling down and drinking fluids, or if someone becomes confused, loses consciousness or stops sweating despite feeling hot, contact NHS 111 or call 999 if it is an emergency.