Information and advice from West Sussex County Council about the Met Office Amber Heat Health Alert

The Met Office Amber Heat Health Alert is in place from 12PM on 11/08/2025 until 6PM on 13/08/2025 across the South East.

see: UKHSA & Met Office Weather Health Alerts

Amber (enhanced response) - An amber alert would represent a situation in which the expected impacts are likely to be felt across the whole health service, with potential for the whole population to be at risk and where other sectors apart from health may also start to observe impacts, indicating that a coordinated response is required. In addition, in some circumstances a National Severe Weather Warning Service (NSWWS) Extreme Heat warning may be issued in conjunction with and aligned to the HHA. This situation would indicate that significant impacts are expected across multiple sectors.

If you know or look after someone that may be susceptible to the effects of this hot weather period please help make sure that they stay cool and well, and if possible check in advance that they are prepared for this hot spell.

Please follow this advice to keep cool and comfortable and reduce health risks:

• Shut windows and close curtains and blinds when it is hotter outside. If it's safe, open them for ventilation when it is cooler.
• Avoid the heat: stay out of the sun and don't go out between 11am and 3pm (the hottest part of the day).
• Keep rooms cool by using shades or reflective material outside the windows. If this isn't possible, use light-coloured curtains and keep them closed (metallic blinds and dark curtains can make the room hotter).
• Have cool baths or showers, or splash yourself with cool water.
• Drink cold drinks regularly, such as water and fruit juice. Avoid tea, coffee and alcohol.
• Plan ahead to make sure you have enough supplies, such as food, water and any medications you need.
• Identify the coolest room in the house so you know where to go to keep cool.
• Wear loose, cool clothing and a hat if you go outdoors.

Also, please don’t forget about the animals in your care and view the top tips for keeping pets cool in hot weather by using the RSPCA link below.

For more information go to:

UK Health Security Agency Adverse Weather Health Plan  UKHSA & Met Office Weather Health Alerts  NHS Choices Heatwave: be prepared  WSCC Dealing with extreme weather  WSCC https://www.westsussex.gov.uk/campaigns/keeping-safe-this-summer/WSCC Preparing for emergencies  Follow WSCC on Twitter for regular updates @WSCCNews @WSCCResilience @wspublichealth  RSPCA Top tips for keeping pets cool in hot weather.