The Met Office has issued an extreme heat warning for the UK, with record-breaking temperatures of up to 38°C (100.4°F) expected this week. The forecaster says there is a 25% chance that temperatures could exceed 40°C, potentially breaking the June record of 35.6°C set in 1976.
The heatwave is forecast to last from Monday to Thursday, with the peak on Wednesday and Thursday. Overnight temperatures may not drop below 20°C in southern England, leading to 'tropical nights'. The Met Office warns that the combination of heat and high humidity will be oppressive and could impact public health, infrastructure, and power and water supplies.
Health alerts have been issued by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), advising people to drink plenty of fluids, avoid the sun between 11am and 3pm, and keep homes cool. Elderly people and those with health conditions are particularly at risk. Age UK has urged older people to take extra care, as their bodies struggle to adjust to extreme heat.
The hot and humid conditions are also expected to increase mosquito numbers, especially in southern England away from coastal areas. Experts say climate change is playing a role in the rising temperatures, with 2025 already being England's warmest June on record.
