The United Kingdom is officially experiencing its third heatwave in as many months, with temperatures forecast to climb above 35 degrees Celsius in parts of the country later this week. The Met Office confirmed on Monday that south-east England has met the heatwave criteria after three consecutive days of temperatures exceeding 28 degrees Celsius.
Temperature Forecast and Regional Variations
Temperatures are expected to continue rising across the UK throughout the week, with more regions likely to reach their local heatwave thresholds, the forecaster added. Parts of southern England could see highs of about 32 degrees Celsius on Tuesday, rising to 33 degrees on Wednesday and 34 degrees on Thursday, with isolated areas reaching 35 degrees on Friday and Saturday. On Monday, the highest temperature recorded was 34 degrees Celsius in Teddington, south-west London, according to the Met Office.
While southern areas face increasingly hot conditions from Monday evening, a north-south divide will persist through the first half of the week. Scotland is expected to experience stronger winds and outbreaks of rain on Tuesday, with temperatures remaining generally closer to the average for this time of year. However, by the weekend, the warm air is forecast to reach northern parts of the UK, and conditions are set to become increasingly humid, with a growing risk of showers or isolated thunderstorms.
Health Alerts and Precautions
Amber heat health alerts have been issued by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) for the Midlands and southern England, from 9am on Wednesday until 9pm on Sunday. This indicates significant impacts are likely across health and social care services due to the high temperatures, including a rise in deaths, particularly among those aged 65 and over or with health conditions. Yellow heat health alerts have also been issued for Yorkshire and northern England for the same period. The UKHSA warned of a potential increase in water-related incidents across England, including risks from cold water shock and drowning.
The Met Office's 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 over the coming days because of the heatwave. Vehicle breakdown rescue companies are also likely to be busier than usual due to the high temperatures. Drivers are advised to carry plenty of water and conduct essential vehicle checks before setting off, particularly tyre pressures and levels of coolant and oil.
Tony Rich, a spokesman for the AA on road safety, 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.”
UV, Pollen, and Tropical Nights
The Met Office said UV levels are expected to be high or very high across many parts of the UK throughout the week, advising people to use sun protection. Pollen levels are also expected to be high or very high in some areas this week. Additionally, the Met Office warned that England could experience “tropical nights” later this week, where temperatures will not fall below 20 degrees Celsius.
