Public Health Wales issued a heatwave health warning on Friday as forecasters signalled temperatures close to 30C in parts of the country in the coming days. The health body urged residents to plan for hot weather, protect those at higher risk, and take simple steps to reduce illness linked to heat. It asked people to stay hydrated, keep homes cool, and avoid the hottest part of the day where possible. The alert comes early in the warm season and follows recent years when hot spells placed pressure on health services and local infrastructure. Officials emphasised practical measures rather than alarm, and set out advice for households, schools, care settings, and outdoor workers.
The warning came across Wales on Friday, ahead of a spell of very warm weather forecast for the next few days.
Advice for the public and those most at risk
Public Health Wales asked people to drink water regularly, avoid excess alcohol, and use shade and sunscreen during the middle of the day. It advised residents to check on older neighbours, relatives, and anyone with long term health conditions, and to plan support for those who rely on regular medication or care visits. Parents should keep babies and young children out of direct sun, keep rooms cool during the day, and never leave a child or pet in a parked car.
Doctors warn that heat can cause dehydration, sunburn, and heat exhaustion. People should look for symptoms such as headache, dizziness, nausea, heavy sweating, and a quickened pulse. If these symptoms appear, Public Health Wales guidance advises people to move to a cooler place, drink water slowly, loosen clothing, and rest until symptoms improve. Anyone showing signs of confusion, loss of consciousness, breathing difficulties, or symptoms that do not improve should seek medical help.
Heat can affect more than comfort
Health officials noted that hot weather can place additional strain on the body, particularly for older adults, infants, pregnant women and people living with conditions such as heart disease, respiratory illness or diabetes.
High overnight temperatures can also reduce recovery time and make sleep more difficult, increasing fatigue and affecting wellbeing. Public Health Wales encouraged households to close curtains or blinds during the hottest periods and open windows when temperatures fall later in the evening.
People who work outdoors were advised to adjust schedules where possible, take regular breaks in shaded areas and increase fluid intake throughout the day.
Schools, care settings and workplaces asked to plan ahead
The warning included practical advice for organisations responsible for children, vulnerable adults and staff working in warmer conditions.
Schools and childcare providers were encouraged to review outdoor activities, provide access to drinking water and use shaded areas where possible. Care settings were reminded to monitor room temperatures and support residents who may not recognise signs of overheating.
Employers with outdoor teams or workplaces that retain heat were advised to consider flexible arrangements, improve ventilation and remind staff to take breaks.
Transport providers and local authorities may also monitor conditions during prolonged warm periods, particularly where services support vulnerable groups.
Weather patterns and early season heat
Temperatures approaching 30C remain unusual for Wales at this stage of the warm season and can catch people off guard because routines and homes may not yet be adapted to sustained hot conditions.
Recent years have brought more periods of prolonged heat across parts of the UK, increasing attention on how communities prepare for higher temperatures and protect public health.
Officials stressed that most people can enjoy warm weather safely by making simple adjustments and planning ahead rather than changing normal routines completely.
What people can do now
Public Health Wales encouraged residents to prepare before temperatures reach their peak.
Simple actions include carrying water when travelling, planning outdoor activities earlier or later in the day, wearing light clothing, and checking in with family members or neighbours who may need support.
The organisation said early action can help reduce avoidable illness and allow people to enjoy the warmer weather more safely over the coming days.
