Monday 13 July 2026, Belfast
Warm, dry and sunny conditions are forecast for Belfast on Monday, with temperatures expected to reach approximately 22°C to 23°C during the afternoon. UV levels are expected to be high.
Walking for an extended period, wearing formal clothing and carrying instruments or equipment can make conditions feel considerably hotter. Everyone taking part is encouraged to prepare carefully, drink regularly and look out for others.
Before setting off
- Drink plenty of water before the parade begins. Do not wait until you feel thirsty.
- Eat a proper breakfast or meal before walking.
- Bring a refillable bottle of water and make use of water points along the route.
- Apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen before leaving. The PHA recommends at least SPF 30 with four-star UVA protection.
- Apply sunscreen generously to the face, ears, neck, hands and any other exposed skin. Reapply during the day, particularly after heavy sweating.
- Wear a suitable hat while assembling, during breaks and whenever parade protocol permits.
- Anyone taking regular medication should bring it with them and follow their normal medical advice.
- People with heart or breathing conditions, diabetes, reduced mobility or a previous history of heat illness should take particular care and consider whether they are fit to complete the full route.
While walking
- Drink small amounts of water regularly throughout the day.
- Avoid excessive alcohol before or during the parade. Alcohol increases dehydration and can make heat-related illness more likely.
- Use shaded areas whenever the parade is stationary or during rest periods.
- Pace yourself and avoid unnecessary physical exertion before the parade.
- Band members carrying heavy instruments should rotate or share loads where this is possible.
- Jackets and formal clothing should only be removed where permitted by parade organisers or lodge and band protocols. Organisers should consider allowing temporary relaxation of dress requirements during prolonged waits or in an emergency.
- Do not ignore someone who appears unsteady, confused, unusually tired or unwell.
- Check regularly on older members and anyone known to have a medical condition.
Warning signs of heat exhaustion
Symptoms can include:
- dizziness or feeling faint;
- headache;
- nausea or vomiting;
- intense thirst;
- muscle cramps;
- heavy sweating;
- pale, clammy skin;
- unusual tiredness, weakness or irritability;
- a fast pulse or breathing rate.
Move the person into shade or a cool place immediately. Remove unnecessary outer clothing, cool their skin and give them cool water or a rehydration drink.
They should begin to feel better within approximately 30 minutes.
When it may be heatstroke
Heatstroke is a medical emergency. Warning signs can include:
- confusion, disorientation or poor coordination;
- very hot skin;
- a very high temperature;
- rapid breathing or a rapid heartbeat;
- a seizure;
- collapse or loss of consciousness;
- symptoms that have not improved after 30 minutes of cooling.
Call 999 immediately. Move the person into shade, remove unnecessary outer clothing and cool them with water, wet cloths, cold packs around the neck and armpits, or by fanning them. Do not leave them alone.
Organisers, lodge officers and band leaders
Organisers should:
- identify water refill and rest points before departure;
- carry additional bottled water where practical;
- brief marshals on the signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke;
- identify first-aid provision and the location of nearby defibrillators;
- plan for older or vulnerable participants to leave the route safely;
- avoid leaving participants standing in direct sunshine for long periods;
- ensure transport or assistance is available for anyone unable to continue;
- communicate clearly that stopping because of illness is the responsible action.
Look after yourself, look after the person beside you and speak up early if you begin to feel unwell.
Photos: Ephy McConnell