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Extreme heat warning - information and advice

Date published: 20 July 2021

The Met Office has issued an amber weather warning for extreme heat as hot conditions will continue across Northern Ireland this week. Extreme heat can have health consequences, as well as increased traffic near coastal areas, increased use of water and an increase in wildfire risk.

Weather warning

The Met Office has issued an amber weather warning for extreme heat between 8.00 am on Wednesday 21 July and 11.59 pm on Friday 23 July.

Weather warnings from the Met Office let the public and emergency services know about potentially hazardous conditions.

You can find out more about weather warnings on the Met Office website.

Risks during a heatwave

High temperatures can be a risk to health, especially for those who are particularly vulnerable.

It can cause sunburn or heat exhaustion (dehydration, nausea, fatigue) and other heat-related illnesses.

  • Heat exhaustion and heatstroke

Heat can affect anyone, but some people are at greater risk of serious harm from the effects of extreme heat. It’s important to keep checking on those who are most vulnerable, such as older people and those with health conditions.

You can take steps to protect yourself and others from the effects of very hot weather:

  • protect yourself from the sun
  • stay cool
  • drink plenty

More information and advice is available at:

  • Looking after yourself in very hot weather

Stay safe around the home

Hot weather can cause heat exhaustion in animals. Also, bacteria on food and rubbish develop more quickly in the heat.

Find out how to look after your pets and take extra care with food and waste at this link:

  • Hot weather advice

Fire safety

During hot and dry weather, avoid bonfires and be extra careful with barbecues. Dry ground in the summer increases the risk of fire. 

  • Fire safety outdoors - barbecues, camping and the countryside
  • Dangers of starting a fire deliberately

What to expect

Extreme heat can also cause:

  • ongoing pressures on water resources
  • an increased chance that some heat-sensitive systems and equipment may fail, leading to power cuts and the loss of other services to some homes and businesses
  • more people are likely to visit coastal areas, lakes and rivers leading to an increased risk of water safety incidents
  • some delays to road, rail and air travel are possible, with potential for welfare issues for those who experience long delays

Emergency numbers

You should note the following numbers in case of emergency:

  • Emergency services – 999 or 112
  • Northern Ireland Electricity Networks – 03457 643 643
  • NI Gas Emergency Service – 0800 002 001
  • Northern Ireland Water Waterline – 03457 440 088
  • Flooding Incident Line – 0300 2000 100
  • Housing Executive – 03448 920 901

 

More useful links

  • Seasonal weather advice
  • Northern Ireland Water
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