Heat-Health Watch
In the UK July 2006 was the hottest July on record and the hottest month on record, breaking the previous records set jointly in July 1983 and August 1995. As a result there was a lot of Heat-Health Watch activity with Level Three Heat-Health Watches issued for many areas twice during the month.
The system appears to have worked well, with messages about the heat and what to do to stay well getting prominent airing on national and local media, and considerable coverage in national and local press.
Service uptake
Western Sussex PCT has signed up to start receiving COPD forecasts over the winter of 2006/07. This is the first winter that they have taken the service and we welcome them on board.
Walsall PCT has also signed up to the service for another year. They have been involved with COPD Health Forecasting since the original 2004/05 winter pilot.
To find out more about the Met Office's health forecasting services and expertise please contact our 24-hour Customer Centre or e-mail to health@metoffice.gov.uk.
