Health leaders have issued a warning with a fresh heat-health alert in place for Suffolk, with high temperatures are expected to continue over the next week.

The UK Health Security Agency and the Met Office alert is in place from 9am on Tuesday until 9am on Monday, June 19. 

A yellow heat-health alert means a likely increase in the use of health care services by vulnerable people and an increase in risk to health for individuals over the age of 65 or anyone with pre-existing health conditions.

It comes after an amber heat-health alert was issued for the county over last weekend as temperatures reached 30C

The fresh warning has prompted Public Health Suffolk to urge people to check on elderly friends and family as they are more vulnerable in the scorching heat.

Stuart Keeble, director of public health at Suffolk County Council, said: "At this time of year most of us look forward to some warm, sunny weather and the chance to spend time outdoors, but it’s important to remember that some people struggle to cope in the heat. 

East Anglian Daily Times: Stuart Keeble, Suffolk's director of public healthStuart Keeble, Suffolk's director of public health (Image: Suffolk County Council)

"Check in on older friends, family and neighbours, particularly those who live alone, who may struggle to keep themselves cool and hydrated during the hot weather.

"The best thing to do in the hot weather is stay out of the direct sun, especially during the hottest part of the day, between 11am and 3pm, as UV rays are strongest during these hours.

"If you’re going out in the hot weather, walk in the shade where possible, apply sunscreen, and drink plenty of water.

"Remember you can keep cool indoors by closing curtains on windows in direct sunlight and opening windows when the air is cooler outside than inside."