Somerset Council is stepping up its response as a Red Heat Health alert is expected across the South West this week, bringing very high temperatures and increased risks to health.
The alert marks the highest level in the national system and signals that widespread impacts are expected, particularly for vulnerable residents.
The South West has been under an Amber Heat Health alert since late last week, which remains in place until 11:59pm on Tuesday evening. This reflects sustained high temperatures and growing pressure on health and care services.
Following a joint risk assessment between UKHSA and the Met Office, the alert is expected to escalate to Red from 1am on Wednesday through to 11pm on Thursday, although this may be extended depending on the forecast.
Somerset Council is coordinating activity across services and working closely with partners to support communities and ensure essential services continue to operate safely.
Supporting vulnerable people
The Council has activated its Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP), with enhanced outreach to support people sleeping rough during the extreme heat.
Teams are increasing welfare checks and providing practical support including drinking water, sunscreen and sun hats, as well as help to access cool, safe spaces. Trained staff are also supporting those showing signs of heat-related illness.
Keeping services running safely
Practical steps are being taken across services to protect staff and minimise disruption.
Waste collections have started earlier this week, from 6am, to reduce the risks to crews working in high temperatures. We are expecting further impacts as we consider the safety of crews and will be issuing further guidance on the impacts to waste collection shortly.
Services are also monitoring the impact of the heat on infrastructure and operations and will respond quickly to any emerging issues including proactive work to protect road surfaces.
Support for schools and families
Advice has been shared with schools and early years settings across Somerset, encouraging them to review their arrangements for managing hot weather and protecting children and young people.
This includes measures to keep children cool, well hydrated and safe during the hottest parts of the day, particularly for those who may be more vulnerable.
In line with national guidance, schools and early years settings have been advised to remain open, with advice provided to help them manage the heat safely, including adapting activities, keeping children well hydrated and ensuring cool, well‑ventilated environments. We are aware that some schools have taken the decision to close, and we understand that they will make these decisions based on their local circumstances and the needs of their pupils and staff.
Public advice
Residents are reminded to take simple steps to stay safe:
- Drink plenty of water
- Avoid the hottest part of the day (11am–3pm) and if you are out, wear a hat and sunscreen and stay in the shade where possible
- Keep indoor spaces cool where possible, by drawing curtains or blinds
- Check on older or vulnerable people
- Avoid unnecessary travel
We would also remind people to take care around open water during hot weather, as swimming in open water can cause cold water shock and hidden hazards can pose serious risks even on very warm days.
Further advice is available on the Council’s website: https://www.somerset.gov.uk/heat-health-alert-advice-and-information/
Cllr Evie Potts-Jones, portfolio holder for Public Health, said:
With very high temperatures expected, our priority is to support residents and protect those most at risk, while ensuring services continue to run safely.
We are taking coordinated action across the council and working closely with our partners, and we would encourage everyone to follow simple advice to stay safe during the hot weather and to look out for others in their community.
