Climate crisis: Amber heat-health alert as city braces for 32 degrees

PARCHED: Pearson Park

By Simon Bristow, Co-Editor

An amber heat-health alert has been issued for Hull and the region, warning that rising temperatures may increase health risks, particularly for vulnerable groups.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) today issued amber alerts for Yorkshire and the Humber and seven other English regions, which will be in place from 9am on Tuesday, August 11, until 9pm on Friday, August 14.

Temperatures in Hull are due to rise from 21 degrees Celsius today to 24C on Tuesday, 27C on Wednesday – potentially hitting a peak of 32C in the city centre on Thursday – before falling to 28C on Friday and 23C and 22C on Saturday and Sunday respectively.

Polly Ashmore, acting consultant in public health at the UKHSA, said: “It’s important that everyone is aware of the simple steps they can take to stay safe during periods of hot weather. Drinking plenty of water, avoiding the sun during the hottest part of the day and keeping indoor spaces cool are all things you can do to keep yourself and others safe.

“For vulnerable groups including older adults and those with existing health conditions, warmer weather can result in serious health outcomes.

“We urge health and social care services to ensure they are prepared and encourage people to check on vulnerable friends and family to make sure everyone is aware of the forecast, follows the necessary advice and stays safe in this period of hot weather.”

Drought is also expected to be declared in more areas of England today as parts of the UK brace for the fifth heatwave of a broiling summer – with conditions intensified by the climate crisis.

Hull is among areas experiencing an extended period of dry weather.

According to the Met Office, there was a small amount of rain in the city on August 4 (0.2mm), but the last “significant” day’s rainfall before that was back on June 9 when there was 0.9mm in Hull. The average monthly rainfall for the city is 70mm in June, 61mm in July, and 65mm in August.

Tom Morgan, operational meteorologist at the Met Office, said: “Hull will have another dry week with mostly sunny weather and temperatures are set to rise with the potential for a heatwave (Wednesday to Friday). Temperatures are expected to peak on Thursday with highs of around 32 Celsius in the city centre.”

Farmers’ leaders have warned the drought could lead to a shortage of certain foods.