London: The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued amber and yellow heat-health alerts across England, marking the first such alerts this year as the country braces for potentially record-breaking temperatures.

According to Anadolu Agency, the UKHSA announced it had issued its first amber heat-health alert of 2026, cautioning against the increased risks posed to vulnerable individuals due to the anticipated high temperatures in the upcoming days. This alert affects the West Midlands, East Midlands, East of England, South East, and London regions, having been elevated to amber status from 2pm local time (1300GMT) on Friday. The alert is set to remain effective until 5pm (1600GMT) on Wednesday, May 27.

In addition to the amber alert, a yellow heat-health alert has been issued for the North East, North West, South West, and Yorkshire and the Humber regions. Temperatures are expected to rise significantly, with forecasts predicting highs in the upper 20s and lower 30s. Bank holiday Monday could potentially become the hottest May day on record, with temperatures in south-east England expected to reach up to 33°C (91°F), as per the country's weather agency, Met Office.

The UKHSA and Met Office's Weather-Health alerting system outlines that an amber heat-health alert signifies likely impacts such as increased use of healthcare services by vulnerable groups and elevated health risks for individuals over 65 or those with pre-existing health conditions. Anya Gopfert, a consultant in Health Protection at UKHSA, advised, "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."