The UK experienced record-breaking temperatures on Wednesday amid a sweltering heatwave, with forecasters warning that conditions could become even hotter in the coming days.
Record-Breaking Temperatures
The Met Office issued a rare red warning for extreme heat as the country endured exceptionally hot and humid weather. Provisional figures indicate that the temperature reached 36.1°C in Gosport, Hampshire, surpassing the previous June record of 35.6°C set in 1976 and 1957. The forecaster noted that this figure could be "beaten again" as the heatwave continues.
The first record-breaking temperature on Wednesday was recorded in Charlwood, Surrey, at 35.7°C, followed by 35.8°C in Wiggonholt, West Sussex, and 36°C in Wisley, Surrey, before the Gosport high.
Red Warnings and Disruption
Red warnings for extreme heat have been issued for an area stretching from London and the south coast to Swansea, Somerset, and Birmingham, remaining in effect until late Thursday. The Met Office warned that "significant disruption to daily life is likely." If temperatures reach 39°C, it would be the second hottest day in UK history; 38°C would still rank among the top five hottest days ever recorded and surpass any day of the 20th century.
The heatwave has prompted health warnings, school closures, and transport disruption. At least 1,000 schools and nurseries in England and Wales will be closed or partially closed on Thursday and Friday. Network Rail advised passengers to travel only if "absolutely necessary," with trains operating at reduced speeds and on amended timetables, leading to longer journey times and a higher risk of disruption.
Health Alerts and Forecast
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) issued red heat health alerts for the East of England, East Midlands, London, the South East, the South West, and the West Midlands, along with amber alerts for the North East, North West, and Yorkshire and The Humber. These alerts are in place until 11pm on Friday, indicating that "adverse temperatures are likely to impact on the health and wellbeing of the population."
The Met Office also issued an amber warning for heat on Friday covering much of England, while a yellow warning for thunderstorms is in place for the South West on Thursday evening. An amber warning for extreme heat covers parts of east and south-east England on Saturday as the heat lingers into the weekend.
Heat-Dome and Expert Comments
The extreme conditions are driven by a "heat-dome" settling over western Europe. Professor Stephen Belcher, chief scientist at the Met Office, described seeing such high temperatures in June as "sobering." The figures are provisional and will be verified after the heatwave to confirm whether a new national record has been set.
