Heat health alert updated for the North West
Published on 11 August 2026 09:21 AM
An amber heat health alert is in effect from 9AM on 11/08/2026 until 9PM on 14/08/2026 across the North West.
Here are some helpful tips to dealing with high heat. You can download a more comprehensive guide to staying cool below!
How can I stay cool when I'm at home?
- Keep blinds or curtains closed during the day, especially on sun-facing windows, to block out heat.
- Open windows on opposite sides of the home during cooler times (early morning or late evening) to create cross-ventilation.
- Drink plenty of water to avoid getting dehydrated and keep eating even if you’re not feeling too hungry. It can be best to avoid alcohol.
- A damp cloth or a splash of water on the back of your neck can be better at cooling you down than a fan.
- Limit the use of ovens and stoves during the hottest parts of the day to reduce indoor heat.
- Most medication should be kept below 25°C – store in a cool dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Check your skin for changes every few months. If you notice that a mole has changed colour or shape or has been bleeding, go and talk to your doctor.
If it's going to be particularly hot and you think you might struggle, ask someone to check on you. It's also a good idea to check on others you think might struggle in the heat.
How can I keep cool at night?
It can be difficult to sleep when it’s hot, but getting enough sleep is important for our health – especially as we get older. It’s also important during hot weather, as you’re using more energy to regulate body temperature.
Here are a few tips on how to keep cool during hot nights:
- Sleep on the lowest level of your home if possible.
- Keep your bedroom blinds and curtains shut during the day, to help keep the heat out of your room.
- Have a cool shower before bed to lower your body temperature before going to sleep.
- Stay hydrated, and keep a cool glass of water by your bed in case you get thirsty during the night.
- Switch to summer bedding – change your duvet to a lighter duvet if you have one or sleep under light cotton sheets instead.
- Sleep in loose-fitting night clothes – cotton or linen are good materials for staying cool.
What should I do if I get dehydrated?
Extreme heat and dry conditions can cause you to overheat and make you dehydrated, which means you've lost more fluid than you're taking in.
What are the symptoms of dehydration and overheating?
- muscle cramps in your arms, legs or stomach
- passing dark or strong smelling urine
- mild confusion
- feeling tired
- sleep problems.
You don't have to feel thirsty to be dehydrated.
What should I do if I'm dehydrated or overheating?
Rest in a cool, dark place and drink plenty of water. If your symptoms get worse, call NHS 111 for advice.
To avoid dehydration, make sure you're drinking plenty of fluids. Water, diluted squash or fruit juice are all good options. It's also good to eat a balanced diet to help your body replace any salt you lose by sweating.