Serious warning issued by government after man dies during hottest bank holiday ever
The first amber heat warning of 2026 is in effect as the UK has just had the hottest ever May bank holiday on record.
We're not yet at the hottest part of the day but at around noon at Heathrow the temperature was recorded as 33.5C which is a new record for the month and is definitely the kind of heat you'd expect to feel at the height of summer rather than the final days of spring.
It breaks the all-time previous temperature record for May of 32.8C, which was set in Camden back in 1922.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has put the amber heat warning in place for the West Midlands, East Midlands, East of England, South East, and London and that'll be in until Wednesday (27 May) warning people that the heat is going to put people's health at risk.
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Over that same time there's also a yellow heat warning in place for the North East, North West, South West, and Yorkshire and the Humber regions, so it's definitely a time to be aware of the dangers of high heat.
The warning was put in place on Friday (22 May) and sadly over the weekend a man died on a busy beach during scorching May temperatures in Hastings.
Emergency services yesterday responded to concerns that a man was having a 'medical incident', but he died at the scene and the circumstances are not thought to be suspicious.
Sussex Police said in a statement: "Emergency services responded to a medical incident on the beach near Warrior Square, St Leonards, following concerns for a man's welfare.
"Officers assisted with the emergency response after the incident was reported at 11am on 24 May. Sadly, despite the best efforts of paramedics, the man was declared deceased at the scene.
"His next of kin have been informed and our thoughts are with them at this difficult time. There were no suspicious circumstances and a report will be prepared for HM Coroner."
While many people would consider the heat to be ideal bank holiday weather the high temperature puts people at risk, especially those who are vulnerable to the hot weather.
Dr Anya Gopfert, Consultant in Health Protection at UKHSA, said: “We know that even moderate heat can lead to serious health problems, especially for older people and those with certain health conditions, so it’s important that everyone takes simple precautions while enjoying the warm weather over the coming days.
“If you have friends, family or neighbours who are more vulnerable, it is important to check in on them and ensure they are aware of the forecasts and are following the necessary advice.”
Staying hydrated, putting on sunscreen and taking breaks from the sunlight are important for not letting the heat get to you, but those aged over 65 or with existing health conditions are particularly vulnerable.
Advice for the heatwave
The most vulnerable to the heat are those over 65 and those under the age of five, along with people who have health conditions like heart problems, breathing problems, dementia, diabetes, kidney disease, Parkinson’s disease or mobility problems.
Pregnant women and people on certain medication like Sertraline, Fluoxetine, and Citalopram need to be careful too, and if you know someone who fits this bill who lives alone it's worth checking on them.
According to the UKHSA the best things you can do are:
- Keep windows closed and curtains drawn in rooms that face the sunlight
- Wear suitable clothing when going out, apply sunscreen and find shade
- Try to avoid going out during the hottest time of the day, between 11am and 3pm
- If you want to go out for exercise try to keep it for the morning or evening when it will be cooler
- Try to avoid direct sunlight
Joe Harker