Extreme heatwave in North Yorkshire
Temperatures are expecting to reach 40 Celsius in some parts of the county
Last updated 18th Jul 2022
A first ever red weather warning for extreme heat's come into effect across a large part of England - including in York and North Yorkshire.
The Met Office says surging temperatures could cause serious illness - and not just in people who are vulnerable.
We're expecting to see temperatures will hit the mid-30s in many places on Monday (18 July) and Tuesday (19 July).
GPs in North Yorkshire are encouraging patients to follow the guidance to stay safe and avoid feeling unwell during the heatwave.
Although hot weather is welcomed by most people, when it's too hot for too long, there are health risks.
In England, there are on average 2,000 heat-related deaths every year.
The hot weather could result in adverse health effects which could lead to potential serious illness or danger to life.
Dr Abbie Brooks, a GP Partner at Priory Medical Group, said: "Whilst we want everyone to enjoy the good weather, the very young, the elderly and the seriously ill should take extra care, as these groups are most susceptible to the risk of health problems when the weather is hot.
"The heat can make heart and breathing problems worse, and cause symptoms such as dehydration, overheating, heat exhaustion and heat stroke. If you see someone struggling, offer them water and help them into the shade."
Protecting patients and staff in the heat
Health bosses at York and Scarborough Hospitals are restricting visitors over the next two days because of the hot weather.
Visits will be allowed AFTER 6PM when it's expected to be cooler to reduce the number of people on the wards.
On the trusts website, a message reads:
'The Met Office has issued extreme heat weather warnings (Red and Amber) for our region on Monday and Tuesday next week (18 and 19 July), developing from Sunday. This means that an exceptionally hot spell is expected.
'On these days we will be restricting visiting to the cooler part of the day, after 6pm. Visiting restrictions do not apply for patients where it is appropriate and necessary to assist with their communication and/or to meet their health, care, emotional, religious, or spiritual needs.
'Restricting visiting to the evenings will help us by reducing the number of people on our wards during the hottest part of the day.
'Thank you for your understanding, support and cooperation as we work to keep our patients and safe during the anticipated extreme heat.'