NHS must plan for heatwaves like it does for winter, health secretary says
Summary
The UK's health secretary said the NHS needs to prepare for heatwaves every year just like it does for winter cold. Hospitals have seen more patients with heat-related problems, and some medical equipment has stopped working in the heat.Key Facts
- NHS must plan ahead for heatwaves as it does for winter pressures.
- Emergency rooms have more patients due to heat-related illnesses this summer.
- Some hospitals faced equipment failures because of high temperatures.
- Vulnerable groups like elderly people are at higher risk during heatwaves.
- The UK tied a record for 34 days with temperatures above 30°C (86°F) this year.
- There could be a record-breaking number of heat-related deaths in 2026.
- The UK Health Security Agency estimated nearly 2,900 heat-related deaths in May and June.
- Heat can worsen chronic health problems such as heart and kidney conditions.
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