An amber heat health alert is in place across the South.
Temperatures could reach 31 degrees Celsius today in some inland areas of Sussex and Hampshire.
NHS University Hospitals Sussex Foundation Trust says A&E departments in Chichester, Brighton and Haywards Heath are extremely busy.
Patients are being reminded to only go to A&E for serious emergencies, and to use other NHS services where appropriate.
Weather today:
It’s a hot, dry and mostly sunny day across the South, with temperatures climbing into the low 30s inland — especially around Midhurst, Petersfield and Southampton. Coastal spots including Selsey, Worthing, Brighton, Eastbourne and Portsmouth will be a little cooler thanks to an onshore breeze, but it’ll still feel very warm.
So what does the amber heat health alert actually mean for us?
The alert means the heat is likely to affect the whole health system, with increased demand expected across hospitals, GP services, care homes and community support.
Officials say there could be a rise in deaths, particularly among people aged 65 and over and those with existing health conditions. However, younger age groups may also be affected.
Hospitals and care homes could face additional pressures, with indoor temperatures in some care settings potentially exceeding the recommended threshold for clinical risk assessments.
There are also concerns that overheating indoor environments could increase the risk to vulnerable people living independently, as well as those in care settings.
Health and social care staff may also be affected by the heat, with workforce capacity potentially reduced. External factors, including transport disruption, could also lead to staffing issues.
The alert also warns of possible problems managing medicines during hot weather, while increased demand for power could put pressure on capacity.
Other sectors may also begin to see impacts, including travel delays.
People are being urged to take care in the heat, check on vulnerable relatives and neighbours, and avoid unnecessary strain on emergency services.
Get the latest BREAKING NEWS for the SOUTH on your phone by downloading the V2 RADIO APP today! Read with ease, no annoying pop-up ads.
V2VOUCHERS.CO.UK is offering half-price deals on a wide range of experiences across the South, from meals out at local restaurants to tickets for some of the region’s biggest events.
Chichester MP questions developer over Earnley housing open days
2026 Goodwood Festival of Speed begins today near Chichester
UPDATE: EasyJet flight from Gatwick Airport to Ibiza declares emergency @12:13 09/07/2026
Appeal for witnesses, information and CCTV following Eastleigh robbery
Spectacular summer cinema in Chichester
Boost for mental health support on the South's major roads with new charity partnership
Sussex custody visiting scheme receives national Platinum award
New Brighton project to examine what decades of body image research has missed and why it matters
Fire in Littlehampton
Worthing special school expansion
On Air