Hospital investigates death during heatwave
Andrew Turner/BBCA hospital is investigating whether high temperatures may have contributed to the death of a patient on a ward during last week's heatwave.
The patient died at the James Paget Hospital in Gorleston, near Great Yarmouth, on Saturday, 27 June.
Jonathan Gardner, executive managing director, said: "Following a review by the trust's medical examiner, concerns were raised about any potential impact of the high temperatures experienced during the hot weather."
The Met Office forecast temperatures of up to 36C (96F) in parts of the county last week, and an amber extreme heat warning was put in place.
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Gardner said: "We can confirm that a patient died on one of our wards on 27 June during the recent period of extreme weather.
"Our thoughts and sincere condolences are with the patient's family at this very difficult time."
The full investigation has been commissioned in line with national guidance, he added, and the family is being kept informed.
Businesses in Norfolk were closed last week as temperatures soared and at least 31 schools closed entirely or closed early.
The Met Office said thermometers hit 37.7C in Lingwood, about 16 miles away from Great Yarmouth, on Friday, which, if verified, could be the highest June temperature ever reached in the UK.
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