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Hot weather

Last updated
24 Mar 2026

Many people enjoy hot weather, but it can make some people unwell.

Hot weather can lead to dehydration and heat related illnesses, such as heat stroke. It can also increase the risk of other illnesses. But many of these risks are preventable.

Get advice on staying safe in hot weather on NHS inform.

Staying informed

Check your local weather forecast and national weather warnings on the Met Office website.

You can keep up to date with weather warnings in your area by:

Keeping your home cool

Close blinds and curtains if windows get direct sunlight during the day. If it’s safe, open windows when the air feels cooler outside, for example at night.

For more information on keeping your home cool, read staying safe in hot weather on NHS inform.

Staying hydrated

Drink fluids throughout the day, especially if you’re active. Take a refillable water bottle if you’re going out.

Limit the amount of alcohol you drink, as it can cause dehydration. If you do drink alcohol, have water or a soft drink between each alcoholic drink.

Check the signs and symptoms of dehydration on NHS inform.

Staying safe outside

Stay out of the sun between 11am to 3pm when the sun’s rays are strongest. Cover up with loose clothing and put on sunscreen with at least SPF 30.

Get advice on suitable clothing and sunscreen on NHS inform.

Try to plan exercise and outdoor activities during cooler parts of the day.

Do not leave babies, children and older people in closed spaces or stationary cars. These areas can get hot very quickly.

Get more advice on summer health on NHS inform.

Outdoor swimming

When weather is warmer, some people like to go open water swimming or wild swimming to cool off. While it has some benefits, it also carries some risks like strong currents and cold water shock.

Read about the risks of outdoor swimming on NHS inform.

Get advice on how to swim safely in outdoor water on NHS inform.

Preventing wildfires

There’s an increased risk from uncontrolled, quickly spreading wildfires during hot weather.

Find out how to prevent wildfires.

Air pollution

Hot weather can make air pollution worse. This can cause problems if you have asthma or breathing problems.

Check air pollution forecasts on the Air Quality in Scotland website.

Find out how to lower the risks of outdoor air pollution on NHS inform.

Saving water

Droughts are becoming more likely due to climate change. This means it’s important to save water, particularly during the summer months.

To save water, you could:

  • check and fix leaking toilets
  • use a watering can instead of a garden hose
  • take shorter showers
  • fix dripping taps
  • turn off the tap while brushing your teeth
  • wash dishes using a basin or bowl rather than running the tap
  • fill the kettle with only the water you need

Find out more about saving water on the Scottish Water website.

Looking out for others

Check in on people who need extra help during hot weather. Only do this if it is safe to do so. You can:

  • help keep their home cool
  • pick up extra food, water, toiletries or any medications they need
  • make sure they have important phone numbers written down
  • keep in contact by phone or visiting them
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