The Met Office has issued an amber extreme heat warning as temperatures are expected to hit 34C on Monday, with a 40% chance of surpassing the highest-ever June temperature of 35.6C, recorded in 1957 and 1976.
Heatwave Builds Over the Weekend
The hot spell follows a warm weekend where the heatwave threshold is likely to be met in parts of southern and eastern England. Saturday will see temperatures reaching 28C in the south and south-east, climbing to 32C on Sunday. By Monday, temperatures will soar to 34C, with Tuesday also seeing mid-30s.
The amber warning covers London, east and south-east England, and parts of south-west England and Wales on both Monday and Tuesday. Some areas may experience tropical nights, with temperatures remaining above 20C overnight, particularly in urban locations.
Health Alerts and Impacts
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued amber heat health alerts for the east, south-east, and south-west of England, as well as London, until 8pm on Tuesday. Greg Wolverson, deputy chief forecaster at the Met Office, warned: "While heatwave criteria will be met for some over the weekend, the warmth will expand and intensify at the start of next week, leading to potential impacts."
The humidity will make conditions feel warmer and more uncomfortable, with tropical nights likely for some. Isolated thundery downpours are possible on Monday and Tuesday.
Summer Outlook and Climate Context
The Met Office's three-month outlook for June to August indicates a higher than normal chance of a hot summer, with an increased risk of heatwave conditions. This follows England and Wales experiencing their warmest spring on record, and the UK's hottest May temperature of 35.1C at Kew Gardens in London.
A climate attribution study by Met Office scientists found that breaking the May temperature record is now about three times more likely due to climate change, occurring roughly once every 33 years compared to once in 100 years in a natural climate.
Water Safety Warning
Samantha Hughes, national water safety partner at the Royal National Lifeboat Institution, urged caution: "With warmer weather approaching, the water is still cold. Entering unexpectedly can cause cold water shock, leading to a sudden increase in breathing and heart rate, which may trigger panic."
At least 15 people died after getting into trouble in open water during the previous hot spell.
