Britain Braces for Another Extreme Heatwave

The UK could experience another spell of exceptionally hot weather next week, with some weather forecasting models indicating temperatures may climb to 41°C, potentially surpassing the country’s current all-time record of 40.3°C, set during the July 2022 heatwave.

According to the Met Office, conditions will remain generally pleasant for the rest of this week, with temperatures mostly in the low to mid-20s. This follows last week’s record-breaking heat, which saw the UK’s warmest June day on record at 37.7°C.

However, longer-range forecasts from the GFS (Global Forecast System) model suggest a significant rise in temperatures early next week. On Monday, highs of 35–36°C are forecast across much of southern, eastern and central England, with temperatures reaching 33°C in parts of Yorkshire and 31°C in South Wales.

The model indicates that Tuesday could be even hotter, with temperatures of 40–41°C possible across parts of England, stretching from Yorkshire to London and across the east of the country. If these forecasts materialise, they would set a new UK temperature record. Cooler conditions are expected to return on Wednesday, although parts of the southeast could still see highs of around 35°C.

Forecast temperature anomaly maps also show much of the UK experiencing temperatures well above the seasonal average. Some projections suggest up to 17 English counties could reach or exceed 40°C.

Despite these forecasts, the Met Office has urged caution, noting that while another heatwave is becoming increasingly likely, the probability of reaching the extreme temperatures experienced last week remains low.

Met Office meteorologist Tony Wisson said temperatures this weekend could reach the high 20s, with 30°C possible in parts of southeast England and mid to high 20s across Wales.

He added that although heatwave conditions are becoming more likely in some areas early next week, forecasts currently indicate a lower risk of the exceptionally high temperatures and humidity seen during the recent hot spell.