Greater Manchester is set to experience a scorching 32°C today as the UK contends with an extreme heatwave, with record-breaking temperatures forecast for later this week. The Met Office has issued a rare red extreme heat warning, the highest level of alert, as a 'heat-dome' settles over western Europe.
Temperature Forecast for Greater Manchester
According to the Met Office, temperatures in Greater Manchester will peak at around 32°C at 3pm today (Tuesday, 23 June 2026). The region will see a mix of sunny and cloudy spells. Similar highs of 32°C are expected on Wednesday, with amber heat warnings in place for Wednesday and Thursday.
Thursday is predicted to be the hottest day in the region, with the mercury potentially reaching 37°C. The UK could see temperatures climb to 40°C in some areas under the red warning, which covers a swathe from London to Swansea and Somerset to Birmingham, from 9am Wednesday to 9pm Thursday.
Record-Breaking Potential and Health Risks
The current heatwave is likely to surpass the June record set in Hampshire in 1976 by several degrees and could approach the UK's all-time high of 40.3°C recorded in July 2022. The Met Office warned that the hot conditions, accompanied by high humidity and very warm nights, will make it difficult for people to recover overnight.
Deputy Chief Forecaster Mark Sidaway stated: “Red warnings are reserved for the most severe events and we’re expecting severe and significant impacts from this heatwave, with health impacts likely for many, even beyond those who are normally more vulnerable to the heat.” He added that consecutive nights where temperatures do not drop below 20°C, known as a Tropical Night, will exacerbate heat stress.
Impacts and Precautionary Measures
The red warning indicates 'severe and significant impacts', including widespread health risks for many people, not just those typically vulnerable to heat, and even danger to life. In response, scores of schools across England and Wales announced closures or early finishes later this week to protect pupils. The Met Office advised people to stay hydrated, keep out of the sun during peak hours, and check on vulnerable relatives.
