After a June that saw record-breaking temperatures and rare severe red weather warnings, the UK could face another scorching month as July threatens to smash five Met Office records. The hottest day in history, the earliest triple heatwave, and the longest heatwave since 1976 are among the milestones that could be reached.
Hottest Day of 2026 and All-Time Record
The current record for the highest temperature in the UK stands at 40.3°C, set in Coningsby, Lincolnshire, in July 2022. With temperatures already climbing, this record could be broken. The UK has already recorded its hottest May and June on record this year, setting the stage for a potentially record-breaking July.
Most Heatwaves in a Single Year
The UK could also see the largest number of heatwaves in one calendar year. A heatwave, defined by the Met Office as an extended period of unusually hot weather relative to the expected conditions for that area and time of year, often accompanied by high humidity, has already occurred in May and June. A third heatwave in July would mark the earliest occurrence of three heatwaves in a year. If another heatwave follows in August or September, it would set a new record for the most heatwaves in a single year.
Longest-Ever UK Heatwave
The longest heatwave on record dates back to 1976, when the UK experienced 15 consecutive days of heatwave conditions nationwide. With temperature minimums for heatwave conditions ranging from 25°C to 28°C, there is a possibility that July could surpass this record. The 35.6°C highs of 1976 have already been exceeded in recent years, and the current warm spell could sustain heatwave conditions for an extended period.
Hottest July on Record
Following a record-setting June that saw temperatures reach 37.7°C in Lingwood, Norfolk, July could become the hottest July ever recorded. The current July record is 40.3°C, set in 2022. Forecasts predict temperatures could reach 32°C on Monday, July 6, with further increases possible later in the month.
Earliest Triple Heatwave
If July brings a third heatwave, it would be the earliest the UK has ever experienced three heatwaves in a calendar year. The combination of May, June, and July heatwaves would mark an unprecedented start to the summer season.
