An amber heat-health alert has been issued for the South West including Devon and Cornwall as temperatures are forecast to rise later this week.
When the alert applies
The alert period is scheduled to begin at 9am on Tuesday 11 August and remain in place until 9pm on Friday 14 August. The Met Office guidance indicates the heat will peak on Thursday, although some parts of the South West are expected to see high temperatures from Wednesday.
Where it will be hottest
Forecasters predict a number of towns across Devon and Cornwall will reach or exceed 30C at points this week. The outlook for named locations is set out below.
| Location | Expected peak day | Peak temperature (°C) |
|---|---|---|
| Exeter | Wednesday–Thursday | 30 |
| Plymouth | Wednesday | 31 |
| Bude (Cornwall) | Wednesday | 31 |
| Bodmin | Wednesday | 31 |
| Launceston | Thursday | 33 |
| Tiverton | Thursday | 31 |
| Tavistock | Thursday | 32 |
| Okehampton | Thursday | 32 |
| Honiton | Thursday | 31 |
Health and local impacts
Amber-level heat alerts are designed to prompt action across health services, councils and social care providers to protect vulnerable people. Alongside the immediate risk of heat-related illness, the prolonged dry spell has left large areas of England, and the whole of Wales, under drought conditions. Reservoirs and rivers remain low and millions are subject to restrictions on water use.
- Be aware of the signs of heat-related illness, especially for older people and those with long-term health conditions.
- Keep hydrated, avoid strenuous activity in the hottest hours and seek cool spaces where possible.
- Follow local guidance on water use, and check whether hosepipe bans or other restrictions apply in your area.
Short-term outlook and wider picture
Although forecasters suggest rain may arrive over the weekend in some southern areas, the expected showers will not compensate for the weeks of shortfall in rainfall that have contributed to the drought. Farmers and water companies have warned of ongoing pressures for crops, livestock feed and supplies if the dry weather continues.
Residents should monitor official updates from the Met Office and local public-health teams and prepare for the hottest days mid-week. Local authorities and health services are likely to step up measures to reduce risks to the most vulnerable during the alert period.
For real-time local updates and specific advice on water restrictions, consult the county council and water-company websites for Devon and Cornwall.
