**Public Health Wales Urges Residents to Remain Indoors Amid Severe Heatwave Warnings**
Residents across Wales are being urged to remain inside or stay within shaded areas as a persistent heatwave sweeps the nation, with forecasts predicting temperatures will soar up to 30°C in various regions. Public Health Wales has issued strong guidance as the elevated heat is expected to continue into the weekend, bringing increased concern for the health and wellbeing of vulnerable groups.
Meanwhile, across the border in England, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) in partnership with the Met Office has introduced an amber alert in response to the hazardous heat. The warning, which took effect from midday on Thursday, is expected to remain in force until 9am on the following Monday, 23 June. Authorities are cautioning that these extreme conditions could lead to a “rise in deaths”, especially among the elderly and those with pre-existing health concerns.
Meteorologists at the Met Office forecast that temperatures across the UK could reach as high as 31°C on both Thursday and Friday, with Saturday potentially bringing highs of up to 33°C. The heatwave is anticipated to linger into Sunday, with the mercury largely remaining above 30°C. The conditions have led experts to stress the importance of community vigilance, especially for those who may struggle to cope with the soaring temperatures.
Dr Agostinho Sousa, the UKHSA’s head of extreme events and health protection, highlighted the seriousness of the emerging weather pattern. “While we have already experienced warm conditions this week, temperatures are set to rise further, exceeding 30°C in many areas,” Dr Sousa explained. He emphasised that high temperatures can lead to severe health implications, particularly for older adults and those with existing health problems. He also suggested that family, friends, and neighbours should regularly check on anyone who may be more vulnerable during this period.
As the hot spell takes hold, several health charities are calling for caution. The British Heart Foundation (BHF) has specifically recommended that individuals with heart conditions take extra steps to protect themselves. Ruth Goss, a Senior Cardiac Nurse at the BHF, addressed the public saying: “People with heart conditions face increased risk during high temperatures, as the heart can be placed under additional strain. It is vital to stay cool, keep hydrated, and check on those who may find it harder to cope.”
Age UK, the charity supporting older people, also issued fresh guidance. Director Caroline Abrahams pointed out that with advancing age, the body finds it more difficult to adapt to extreme weather. She warned that heat exhaustion, dehydration, and heat stroke are far more serious for those living with chronic conditions, and some medications can further predispose people to the dangers of hot weather. Abrahams echoed the appeal for everyone to check regularly on elderly neighbours and family members.
Public Health Wales has issued a list of practical steps for people to follow amid this period of extreme heat. These include drinking plenty of water, applying sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, and remaining indoors or in the shade, particularly between the hours of 11am and 3pm. Additional recommendations consist of wearing lightweight, loose-fitting clothing and keeping living spaces cool by closing curtains or blinds on sun-facing windows. Residents are also encouraged to check in on those who are particularly at risk, such as elderly neighbours, young children, and anyone living alone.
The Met Office has noted that, while the weather is likely to remain dry and sunny for most, there is a possibility of thunderstorms developing, especially on Saturday. Nights are expected to remain warm, with temperatures potentially not dropping below 20°C in some locations – a phenomenon unofficially known as a ‘tropical night’. By Sunday and Monday, however, conditions should begin to refresh, with a return to more moderate temperatures and isolated showers predicted.
Deputy chief meteorologist Dan Holley stated, “The main story this week is the heat, with much of the UK seeing values reaching the heatwave threshold. Saturday is predicted to be the hottest day, with the south, Midlands, and even parts of northern and eastern Scotland expecting temperatures in the high twenties and low thirties. Overnight, some areas may remain surprisingly warm.”
While sunnier days are often met with enthusiasm, the scale of this heatwave serves as a reminder that intense weather events demand individual and collective responsibility. With public health bodies now on high alert, communities across Wales and beyond are being encouraged to look after one another, follow guidance, and take steps to keep safe and cool during this prolonged spell of hot weather.