Heat Alerts – What They Mean and What To Do 

Hot weather can affect your health — especially if it lasts for several days. The Gibraltar Health Authority uses heat alerts to let you know when to take action. Below is what each alert level means and what you should do: 

Anyone can be affected by the heat but people who are more at risk include 

• Young children 

• Pregnant women 

• Over 60s 

• Diabetes / heart condition 

 

Level 1: Green – Get Ready for Summer 

(1st June – 15th September) 
There’s no immediate risk from the heat, but it’s a good time to get prepared. 

What to do: 

• Check in on older family members or neighbours who live alone. 

• Get a fan or aircon ready. 

• Make a plan for how to keep cool at home. 

• Stay informed via updates on GHA-PH webpage, GBC and the MetOffice. 

 

Level 2: Yellow – Be Alert (31°C or higher) 

Hot weather is on the way. Most people will be fine, but older adults, under 5’s, pregnant and those with diabetes and/or heart conditions are at higher risk.

What to do:

• Drink water regularly – even if you’re not thirsty.

• Avoid going out, if possible, during the hottest times of the day – between 2pm – 6pm

• Wear light, loose clothes and use sunscreen.

• Check on neighbours or family who might need help.

• If you work outside, take regular breaks in the shade. 

 

Level 3: Amber – Heatwave (35°C or higher) 

The heat could affect everyone, especially if it lasts several days. This level is more serious. 

What to do: 

• Follow all Yellow Alert tips – especially checking on others. 

• Avoid travelling or doing heavy exercise in the hottest part of the day (2pm – 6pm) 

• Stay in the shade 

• Take cool baths or showers 

• Drink plenty of water even if you don’t feel thirsty 

• Look out for signs of heatcramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke. 

• If you feel dizzy, sick, or very tired, move to a cool place and sip water. 

• Stay tuned to local news and GHA updates. 

 

Level 4: Red – Extreme Heat (40°C or higher) 

This is a heat emergency and high temperatures could last for more than one day. Even healthy people can feel unwell. The whole community needs to act. 

What to do: 

• Follow all yellow and amber advice, plus; 

• Stay indoors in the coolest part of your home. 

• Drink water often, and rest. 

• Only go outside if you must such as to check up on vulnerable individuals – and avoid going out the hours of 2pm to 6pm. 

• Check in on vulnerable people – ideally in person. 

• Some public events may be changed or cancelled for safety. 

• Follow official advice from the GHA, Civil Contingencies and the Met Office.