New 24-hour amber heat alert for Peterborough warns of ‘a rise in deaths’ as fourth heatwave of the summer hits
Heat is expected to build in Peterborough this week
The UK Health Security Agency has upgraded its heat-health alert for Peterborough to amber, with highs of 32C expected this week.
The new alert will be in force between 9am tomorrow (Wednesday, July 29) and 9am on Thursday (July 30).
According to the alert, the heat could cause “significant” impacts across health and social care services, including a rise in deaths among those aged 65 and over or with health conditions.
Water‑related incidents may increase, including risks from cold‑water shock and drowning.
Other likely impacts include the heat affecting the ability of the workforce to deliver services and issues managing medicines.
The hottest day of the week is likely to be Wednesday, when Peterborough could experience highs of 32C.
Temperatures are expected to fall to around 24C on Thursday.
Peterborough has endured an exceptionally hot and dry summer so far, with a number of records dating back to the infamous summer of 1976 smashed.
A lack of rain has resulted in Peterborough being placed under a hosepipe ban by Anglian Water, meaning residents cannot use water for things like watering plants or cleaning cars.