The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued Heat Health Alerts for London.
A Red Heat Health Alert – the highest level – will be in place from 09:00 on Wednesday 24 June to 21:00 on Thursday 25 June.
A red alert is rare and signals population‑wide health risks, not just for those who are usually more vulnerable to extreme heat. It can lead to serious illness or danger to life.
As temperatures rise, please take extra care – especially for those who may feel the heat more than others.
Tips to stay safe in the heat
- Look out for older adults, people with health conditions and those living alone.
- Keep indoor spaces cool by closing curtains on sun‑facing windows.
- Stay hydrated – drink plenty of water and carry a bottle when out.
- Never leave anyone in a parked vehicle, including pets.
- Avoid the sun between 11am and 3pm when UV rays are strongest.
- Use high‑SPF sunscreen and wear a wide‑brimmed hat.
- Avoid strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day.
Swimming safety and open water
- Swimming is not permitted in any lakes in Redbridge.
- Open water can be extremely dangerous due to hidden currents, cold temperatures and underwater hazards.
- The London Fire Brigade has produced a video on open‑water dangers – please take a moment to watch and share it.
Service changes
Due to the Red Heat Alert and exceptionally high temperature there has been some changes to opening hours in our facilities.
Saturday 27 June, facilities with changes to opening hours:
- Gants Hill Library, Goodmayes Library and Hainault Library closing at 13:00.
Libraries with Air Conditioning:
- Redbridge Central Library
- Woodford Green Library & Gym
- Fullwell Cross Library
- South Woodford Library & Gym / Redbridge Drama Centre
- Keith Axon Library (This is normally closed on Thursday’s but will open instead of Goodmayes Library
Libraries that are open with normal opening hours without air conditioning:
- Wanstead Library
Water is available on request if a water dispenser is not available at these facilities.
For further updates over the next few days please re-visit this page.
Events postponed
- The Armed Forces Day event has been reschedule for Thursday 2 July at 11am outside Redbridge Town Hall, Ilford High Road.
- Treasures of the Tide parade scheduled for Saturday 27 June.
Parks and BBQs
- Take your rubbish home or use the bins provided.
- BBQs are not permitted in any Redbridge parks, including disposable ones.
- Dry grass can catch fire easily — please avoid naked flames outdoors.
- Dispose of cigarette butts safely.
Cool spaces
Cool spaces are indoor spaces that are open to the public to shelter from the sun, cool down, rest, and take respite during extreme heatwaves. These spaces may help reduce health risks from hot weather.
The libraries listed below are open to colleagues and residents who need a cool space. Water will be available to visitors at all our local libraries if they require it, please speak to a member of staff,
- Woodford Green Library – Snakes Lane West, Woodford Green, IG8 0DX
- Central Library – Clements Road, Ilford, IG1 1EA
- Fullwell Cross Library – 140 High Street, Ilford, IG6 2EA
- Redbridge Drama Centre – Churchfields, South Woodford, E18 2RB
By sharing this information with friends, family and neighbours, we can help everyone stay safe during the hot weather.
For the latest weather updates, visit the Met Office website.
