ECB Extreme weather guidelines 2026

Cricket is routinely played in the hottest months of the year. Everyone involved should always consider the risks associated with participating, spectating or officiating in hot and/or sunny and/or humid conditions. Particular care should be taken when amber or red extreme heat warnings are in place.

This week (Tuesday 23rd June 2026), ECB have updated their Extreme Weather Guidelines in response to the recent hot conditions across England & Wales.

ECB Recommendations Summary:

1. Check forecasts, Heat-Health Alerts, UV levels, air quality and local ground conditions before training or matches, including mapping the shade at your ground, stillness, humidity and heat reflected from the ground.
2. Plan ahead for hot weather, including water, shade, cooling aids, longer drinks breaks and welfare checks for players, officials, volunteers and spectators.
3. Consider changing start times, shortening activity, suspending play or postponing/rearranging fixtures where heat, humidity or local conditions create welfare concerns.
4. Pay particular attention to people at greater risk in the heat, including young children, older adults and those with existing health conditions.
5. Monitor for signs of heat-related illness, including tiredness, dizziness, headache, nausea, excessive sweating, cramps, fast breathing or heartbeat, confusion or collapse.
6. Treat suspected heatstroke as a medical emergency and seek immediate medical help.
7. Encourage sun protection, including SPF 30+ sunscreen, regular reapplication, hats, sunglasses, lightweight clothing and provision of shade.
8. If thunder or lightning is present, stop activity and get everyone indoors immediately. Do not delay to cover pitches or move equipment. Follow the 30/30 rule.

Local conditions on the ground also need to be considered in addition to weather forecasts: each cricket ground will have its own degree of ‘stillness’, available shade, and radiant heat properties, which may generate even higher temperatures in the shade.

Extreme heat conditions are those that are hotter and/or more humid than normal local summer thresholds. Much higher temperatures are now being experienced in the UK, with temperatures of 40°C experienced across the country in recent years.