Met Office forecasts another UK heatwave

The UK is set to experience its third heatwave of the year, with the Met Office forecasting temperatures of up to 35°C later this week. While the hot spell is expected to be widespread, forecasters say it will differ from the previous heatwaves in May and June in three key ways: it is unlikely to break temperature records, overnight conditions will be slightly cooler, and the warm weather could last for several consecutive days.

According to Met Office Deputy Chief Forecaster Steven Keates, many parts of England are already entering official heatwave conditions, with southern England expected to see daytime temperatures in the low 30s throughout the week. Some isolated areas could reach 34°C to 35°C by Friday and Saturday.

Unlike the record-breaking heat experienced at the end of June, when temperatures climbed to 37.7°C in Lingwood, Norfolk, this latest heatwave is not expected to surpass previous records. However, it is forecast to be more prolonged, bringing several consecutive days of hot weather across much of the UK.

Night-time temperatures are also expected to be lower than during June’s heatwave, although large urban areas may still remain in the high teens overnight. A few locations could experience a tropical night, where temperatures do not fall below 20°C.

The heat will extend beyond England, with parts of Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland also experiencing unusually warm conditions. While northern regions are expected to remain cooler, temperatures could still reach the upper 20s.

Forecasts suggest southern England will see highs of around 32°C on Monday and Tuesday, increasing to 33°C on Wednesday, 34°C on Thursday and potentially peaking at 35°C by the end of the week.

In response to the rising temperatures, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued yellow heat-health alerts for several regions, including London, the South East, South West, East Midlands, East of England and the West Midlands. The alerts remain in effect until 8 p.m. on July 11.

Health officials have warned that the hot weather could place additional pressure on healthcare services, particularly affecting older adults and other vulnerable groups. They also urged the public to take precautions against heat-related illness, stay hydrated, protect themselves from strong UV levels and be aware of increased risks around open water, including cold water shock and drowning.

Current forecasts suggest the heatwave will begin to ease during the week starting July 13, with temperatures expected to return to more typical summer levels.