Health alert issued for Derbyshire as Chesterfield set to be hotter than Ibiza this bank holiday weekend

UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued an amber heat health alert warning for Derbyshire, which will be in place across the county from 2pm today (Friday, May 22) until 5pm on Wednesday, May 27.

This comes as after a cold and rainy spring, temperatures across Derbyshire are set to soar this bank holiday weekend with a sunny weather spell forecast.

The Met Office has said that the weekend will be “warm and sunny” with temperatures in Chesterfield set to hit 29°C on Monday (May 25) – four degrees warmer than Ibiza, which is set to see 25°C the same day.

While many are excited for the beautiful weather, UKHSA has warned of health risks caused by high temperatures.

The government agency said that “significant” impacts are “likely” across health and social care services due to the high temperatures, including: a rise in deaths, particularly among those ages 65 and over or with health conditions – and there may also be impacts on younger age groups.

The UKHSA warned that internal temperatures in care settings (hospitals and care homes) may exceed recommended threshold for clinical risk assessment, while overheating indoor environments will increase the risk to vulnerable people living independently.

The NHS has shared the following safety advice explaining how to cope during heatwaves: “Keep out of the heat if you can. If you have to go outside, stay in the shade especially between 11am and 3pm, wear sunscreen, a hat and light clothes, and avoid exercise or activity that makes you hotter.

“Cool yourself down. Have cold food and drinks, avoid alcohol, caffeine and hot drinks, and have a cool shower or put cool water on your skin or clothes.

“Keep your living space cool. Close windows during the day and open them at night when the temperature outside has gone down.

"Electric fans can help if the temperature is below 35 degrees.

"Check the temperature of rooms, especially where people at higher risk live and sleep.

"You can also get help from the environmental health office at your local council, if you think a hot house is affecting your health or someone else's.

"They can inspect a rented home for hazards to health, including excess heat.”