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Somerset
alerts
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 A Red Heat Health Alert has been issued for the South West, with alerts in place from 4pm on Wednesday 24 June until 11pm on Friday 26 June.
This is the highest alert level, meaning widespread impacts are expected, with increased risks to health, especially for older people, young children and those with existing conditions.
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What’s happening
We’re working with partners to respond to the extreme heat and keep essential services running safely.
Hot weather can lead to:
- Dehydration
- Overheating
- Heat exhaustion or heatstroke
Service updates
Waste collections
- Collections starting earlier (from 6am) with possible disruptions during the hottest days – see Bins out by 6am, as weather heats up
- Recycling centres closing at midday
- Further steps may be taken in line with the extension of the Red Heat Health period
What to do:
- Put bins out the night before
- Leave missed collections out where advised
- Check updates on the Somerset Waste Facebook page
Support for vulnerable residents
Schools and services
Schools and early years settings are taking steps to keep children cool, hydrated and safe. Check for updates via our School closures page.
How to stay safe in hot weather
Simple actions can significantly reduce the risks associated with extreme heat, including dehydration, heat exhaustion and heatstroke.
- Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day, even if you do not feel thirsty
- Avoid the hottest part of the day, between 11am and 3pm, and seek shade where possible
- Only open windows when the air outside is cooler than the air inside
- Keep homes cool by closing curtains or blinds in sun-facing rooms
- Wear light clothing, a hat and sunscreen when outdoors
- Avoid strenuous activity during peak heat
- Check on older or vulnerable people regularly
- Help prevent fires during hot weather
UKHSA guidance emphasises that many heat-related illnesses are preventable if people follow simple advice and look out for others.
People are also reminded to take care around open water, where cold water shock and hidden hazards can pose serious risks even during hot weather.
Alison Bell, Director of Public Health at Somerset Council, said:
“This is not just uncomfortable weather. At red alert level, extreme heat poses a genuine risk to life, even for people who are otherwise fit and well.
“The most important things you can do are simple: stay out of the sun during the hottest part of the day, drink water regularly, keep your home as cool as possible and check in on the people around you. No one is immune to heat this extreme. Please look out for yourselves and for each other.”
Stay up to date
For the latest advice and updates, visit our Heat health alert advice and information page.
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