The UK has officially entered its third heatwave in as many months, with temperatures expected to climb as high as 35C in some areas later this week, the Met Office has confirmed.
South east England has met the heatwave criteria after three consecutive days of temperatures above 28C. Temperatures are set to rise across the UK throughout the week, with more regions likely to reach their local heatwave thresholds.
Temperature Forecast
Parts of southern England could see highs of about 32C on Tuesday, rising to 33C on Wednesday and 34C on Thursday. The highest readings of 35C are forecast for isolated areas on Friday and Saturday. On Monday, the highest temperature recorded was 34C in Teddington, south-west London, according to the Met Office.
A north-south divide will persist through the first half of the week, with Scotland experiencing stronger winds and outbreaks of rain on Tuesday, keeping temperatures closer to average. However, by the weekend, warm air is expected to reach northern parts of the UK, bringing increasingly humid conditions and a growing risk of showers or isolated thunderstorms.
Health Alerts and Precautions
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued amber heat health alerts for the Midlands and southern England from 9am on Wednesday until 9pm on Sunday. This indicates significant impacts on health and social care services, including a rise in deaths, particularly among those aged 65 and over or with health conditions. Yellow heat health alerts are in place for Yorkshire and northern England for the same period, with possible significant impacts and warnings of increased water-related incidents, including cold water shock and drowning.
Met Office deputy chief forecaster Steven Keates said: “Parts of the UK are entering heatwave conditions: the third heatwave in the UK so far this year. However, unlike the May and June heatwaves, we are not expecting this heatwave to be record-breaking. Temperatures this week are not expected to reach the highs we witnessed last month, though parts of southern England in particular are likely to see several days in the low 30s, and a few places could reach 34-35C later this week.”
Travel and Safety Advice
National Rail Enquiries has urged train passengers to check for updates due to the heatwave. Vehicle breakdown rescue companies are expected to be busier than usual. Drivers are advised to carry plenty of water and conduct essential vehicle checks, including tyre pressures, coolant, and oil levels. Tony Rich, AA road safety spokesman, said: “With temperatures expected to climb into the low 30s across parts of England over the coming days, drivers should take the heat as seriously as they would ice or heavy rain. A few simple checks before setting off can make all the difference. Make sure your tyres are correctly inflated, check your coolant level and carry plenty of drinking water for everyone in the vehicle, including pets. If you’re planning a longer journey, build in regular breaks and try to avoid the hottest part of the day where possible. Should you break down, get yourself and your passengers to a place of safety, ideally behind the safety barrier if there is one, and keep hydrated while waiting for assistance.”
The Met Office warned that England could experience “tropical nights” later this week, with temperatures not falling below 20C. UV levels are expected to be high or very high across many parts of the UK, and people are advised to use sun protection. Pollen levels are also expected to be high or very high in some areas this week.
