Yellow heat-health warning issued for east of England as King’s Lynn temperatures expected to hit 27C

Residents have been urged to prepare for soaring temperatures this weekend after the first heat-health alert of the year was issued.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and the Met Office have issued the Heat-Health Alert (HHA) in six regions of England – including the East, where West Norfolk lies.

The yellow alert is currently in place from 9am on Friday until to 9am next Monday, and if forecasted temperatures are reached it has been deemed likely that there could be some impacts across the health and social care sector.

Temperatures in Lynn are expected to reach highs of around 27C this weekend.

A yellow alert suggests that there may be an increased use of health care services by vulnerable populations and an increase in risk to health for those aged over 65 – or those with pre-existing health conditions, including respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.

There is also the potential for indoor environments, including health and care settings, to become “very warm”.

Dr Agostinho Sousa, head of extreme events and health protection at the UKHSA, said: “In the coming days we are likely to experience our first sustained period of hot weather of the year so far, so it’s important that everyone ensures they keep hydrated and cool while enjoying the sun.

“Forecasted temperatures this week will primarily impact those over the age of 65 or those with pre-existing health conditions such as respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.

“If you have friends, family or neighbours who you know are more vulnerable to the effects of hot weather, it is important you check in on them and ensure they are aware of the forecasts and are following the necessary advice.”