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Heatwaves
Food Security during Heatwaves
Prolonged periods of extreme heat can affect food production, storage, and distribution. Crops may fail, refrigerated goods can spoil more quickly, and water shortages can impact both agriculture and household food preparation.
What residents can do:
Store food safely by keeping fridges at the correct temperature (below 5°C) and avoiding overstocking perishable items
Opt for non-perishable foods (e.g. tinned goods, dried foods) during extreme heat periods
Stay hydrated and prioritise foods with high water content (e.g. fruits and vegetables)
Reduce food waste by planning meals and using leftovers efficiently
Avoid outdoor cooking or food preparation in extreme heat where possible
What councils and local authorities can do:
Support food banks and community food networks to ensure continued supply
Provide guidance on food safety during heatwaves
Coordinate with local retailers and suppliers to monitor shortages
Identify and support vulnerable populations (e.g. elderly residents) at risk of food insecurity
Ensure contingency planning aligns with local climate adaptation strategies
Find below the Heat Summary regarding food supply from the UK Health Security Agency.
