Red heat health alert issued on the Isle of Wight

Ryde beach <i>(Image: County Press)</i>
Ryde beach (Image: County Press)
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A red heat health alert has been issued for the Isle of Wight and will be in force later this week.

The UK Health and Security Agency (UKHSA) has warned of expected severe impact to health and social care services between 1am on Wednesday, June 24 and 11pm on Thursday, June 25.

The red alert, which is the strongest the agency issue, warns of increased risk to life across the whole population, increased demand on all health services and impacts on the workforce and indoor environments.

In Newport, the Met Office forecasts highs of 35 degrees on Wednesday and 32 degrees on Thursday.

The warning follows an existing amber heat health alert, which has been in place since last Thursday (June 18).

An amber 'extreme heat' weather warning from the Met Office is in place until 11.59pm on Thursday (June 25).

Guidance issued by the Isle of Wight Council advises people to avoid the sun between 11am and 3pm, walk in the shade, wear a hat and apply sunscreen and avoid alcohol, caffeine and hot drinks.

Additionally, guidance suggests taking cool showers or baths, closing sun-facing windows and curtains during the day and checking in on vulnerable people.

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