Stay safe as Red Heat Health Alert issued

Published: 22 June 2026 A bright yellow and orange background suggesting intense heat. In the centre is a red rectangular banner with white text reading “Red heat‑health alert.” The NHS logo appears in the top left corner, and the London Borough of Redbridge logo with a white leaf icon appears in the top right corner.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued two Heat Health Alerts for London. An Amber Alert is in place from 12:00 on Thursday 18 June to 20:00 on Tuesday 23 June 2026.

A Red Heat Health Alert — the highest level — will be in place from 09:00 on Wednesday 24 June to 21:00 on Thursday 25 June.

A red alert is rare and signals population‑wide health risks, not just for those who are usually more vulnerable to extreme heat. It can lead to serious illness or danger to life.

As temperatures rise, please take extra care — especially for those who may feel the heat more than others.

Tips to stay safe in the heat

  • Look out for older adults, people with health conditions and those living alone.
  • Keep indoor spaces cool by closing curtains on sun‑facing windows.
  • Stay hydrated — drink plenty of water and carry a bottle when out.
  • Never leave anyone in a parked vehicle, including pets.
  • Avoid the sun between 11am and 3pm when UV rays are strongest.
  • Use high‑SPF sunscreen and wear a wide‑brimmed hat.
  • Avoid strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day.

Swimming safety and open water

  • Swimming is not permitted in any lakes in Redbridge.
  • Open water can be extremely dangerous due to hidden currents, cold temperatures and underwater hazards.
  • The London Fire Brigade has produced a video on open‑water dangers — please take a moment to watch and share it.

Support for people sleeping rough

  • Outreach teams will be providing water, hats, sun protection and fresh fruit.
  • Anyone needing a safe, cool place to rest will be offered daytime respite.
  • Support will be delivered by outreach workers, the Community Safety Taskforce and The Welcome Centre.
  • Services carrying extra water in their vehicles can help us reach more people.
  • Our eleven libraries and The Welcome Centre are open as cooling stations for anyone needing shade and relief.
  • If you’re concerned about someone sleeping rough in Redbridge, please contact StreetLink so outreach teams can help quickly.
  • Additional beds have been set up at Ryedale Hostel for vulnerable residents needing overnight shelter.
  • Void spaces in our HMO have been offered, and further hotel spaces will be booked via Housing Solutions if required.
  • Additional water has been ordered, and our Community Taskforce Team and Parks officers will be distributing supplies to those sleeping rough.

Service changes

Waste and recycling collections

  • To keep crews safe in the extreme heat, collections will start earlier than usual.
  • Please place your bins at your boundary by 5am on your collection day this week.

Schools

  • All mainstream primary and secondary schools will run mornings only on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.

Parks and BBQs

  • Take your rubbish home or use the bins provided.
  • BBQs are not permitted in any Redbridge parks, including disposable ones.
  • Dry grass can catch fire easily — please avoid naked flames outdoors.
  • Dispose of cigarette butts safely.

By sharing this information with friends, family and neighbours, we can help everyone stay safe during the hot weather.

For the latest weather updates, visit the Met Office website.