Ahead of the Bank Holiday weekend, and with temperatures continuing to rise this week in the Capital, the NHS in London is urging people to take care in the hot weather and use NHS services wisely.
The hot spell is not only set to bring the warmest weather of 2025 so far, but it could also be the warmest the UK has experienced since September last year.
While many people enjoy warmer weather, hot weather can cause some people to become unwell through overheating (becoming uncomfortably hot), dehydration, heat exhaustion and heatstroke.
NHS England London’s Medical Director, Chris Streather, said: “We’re forecasted some very hot weather over the next few days and would like people to not only enjoy the sun but also be safe by taking precautions to keep well and avoid putting pressure on services.
“We advise people to keep out of the sun at the hottest time of the day, between 11am and 3pm. If you are going to do a physical activity, for example exercise or walking the dog, plan to do these during times of the day when it is cooler such as the morning or evening.”
Dr Streather also suggested drinking plenty of fluids, applying sunscreen and limiting alcohol intake.
He said: “Hot weather can increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, lung problems and other diseases. Older people, babies and young children are more likely to be unwell from hot weather because their bodies are less able to regulate temperature. People with underlying medical conditions can also be vulnerable to the effects of hot weather.”
With the coming weekend being a May Day Bank Holiday weekend (3-5 May), health services will be under pressure and A&E departments and the 111 phone service will be busy. As a result, people should use NHS 111 online as their first point of contact for non-emergency medical advice.
People across the capital should be prepared for any medicine needs and know how to get support and advice. People should use the NHS App to order repeat prescriptions and visit NHS111 online first for medical advice.
The NHS App links to NHS 111 online which offers help for a wide range of symptoms and medical conditions. Health advice and information is also available via the NHS website, including help finding a local pharmacy, dentist, GP practice or Talking Therapies service.
NHS 111 online is not available for children under 5. People looking for urgent medical help for under 5s should use the 111 phone line.
People who are at higher risk of becoming seriously unwell include:
older people aged 65 years and over (note change from previous guidance of 75 years of age and above)
babies and young children aged 5 years and under
people with underlying health conditions particularly heart problems, breathing problems, dementia, diabetes, kidney disease, Parkinson’s disease, or mobility problems
people on certain medications
people with serious mental health problems
people who are already ill and dehydrated (for example from diarrhoea and vomiting)
people who experience alcohol or drug dependence
people who are physically active and spend a lot of time outside such as runners, cyclists and walkers
people who work in jobs that require manual labour or extensive time outside
people experiencing homelessness, including rough sleepers and those who are unable to make adaptations to their living accommodation such as sofa surfers or living in hostels.
people who live alone and may be unable to care for themselves
