The Met Office has issued a rare Red Extreme Heat Warning for parts of England and Wales from 9:00am on Wednesday 24 June until 9:00pm on Thursday 25 June 2026, with temperatures potentially reaching 38°C to 40°C in some areas.
The UK Health Security Agency has also issued Red Heat-Health Alerts for parts of England, warning of a severe risk to health during this period. While elderly residents, young children, people with health conditions and isolated individuals may be most vulnerable, prolonged exposure to extreme heat can affect anyone.
For residents living in apartment blocks and managed estates, staying safe during a heatwave is not only about personal precautions. It is also about looking after neighbours, using communal spaces responsibly and reporting building-related concerns quickly.
Keeping Yourself and Others Safe
During extreme heat, small changes can make a meaningful difference. Residents should try to keep homes as cool as possible by closing curtains, blinds and windows on sun-facing elevations during the hottest parts of the day, then ventilating when temperatures are lower.
It is also important to drink water regularly, avoid strenuous outdoor activity during peak temperatures and check in on elderly or vulnerable neighbours who may need support. Children and pets should never be left unattended, and pets should always have access to fresh water and shaded areas.
Looking After Communal Areas
High temperatures can place additional pressure on communal areas and estate infrastructure. Plant rooms, ventilation systems, lifts, access control systems and lighting may all be more vulnerable during exceptional weather.
Residents can help by reporting any building-related concerns through MyLevels as soon as they notice them. This may include overheating plant rooms, failed ventilation, damaged communal lighting, or other heat-related defects.
Communal gardens and open spaces should also be used with care. Please take sensible precautions to protect yourself and your family from the sun, and avoid any activity that could create a fire risk.
Reducing Fire Risk
Periods of hot, dry weather can significantly increase fire risk around landscaped areas, balconies, terraces and communal grounds.
Cigarettes should always be disposed of safely. Disposable barbecues should not be used on balconies, terraces, communal grounds, or near planted areas. Even a small source of heat can become dangerous in the wrong conditions.
Staying Informed
Weather and health warnings can change quickly, so residents should continue to follow updates from the Met Office and relevant public health bodies.
https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/weather/warnings-and-advice/uk-warnings
Levels Property Management will continue to monitor the situation for our managed developments and provide updates where needed. Thank you to all residents for helping to keep buildings, estates and communities safe during this period of exceptional weather.
