The Met Office has shared its forecast for this weekend after extreme heat spread across the UK this week. Temperatures peaked at 38.1 degrees Celsius in London on Thursday (August 13), making it the fifth hottest day on record for the UK.
However, many people will be pleased to know the extreme heat will not last throughout the weekend. Over the next few days, temperatures will freshen, with some "much needed" rain also forecast early next week.
Forecaster's comments on the heat spell
Met Office chief forecaster Neil Armstrong said: "This current spell of extreme heat is the latest in a remarkable summer. Numerous temperature records have been broken and we’ve seen an exceptionally dry season across much of England and Wales too."
Mr Armstrong added: "Friday will be a less hot day, with temperatures forecast to reach highs of 34°C in the south east. Into the weekend temperatures could still hover over 30°C in the south, with a gradual return to average over the next few days."
Record temperatures and regional details
Pershore in Worcestershire recorded highs of 38C on Thursday, with a total of 40 locations across central and southern England recording temperatures of 36C or higher. The latest extreme heat also means 2026 has seen the most number of days reaching or exceeding 36C (four days) and 37C (three days).
In the North West on Friday (August 14), it will be a bright and sunny start to the day with a maximum temperature of 25C. The Met Office said: "A bright start with sunny spells. Scattered showers across the north will move southwards through the day, though many areas will remain dry. A few of the showers could be on the heavy side. Less hot than Thursday. Maximum temperature 25 °C."
Weekend outlook and cooler days ahead
Looking ahead to Saturday, the forecast added: "A dry and bright day for many, with plenty of sunshine. Perhaps a few light showers developing in the north by late afternoon. A pleasant feeling day, with light winds. Maximum temperature 20 °C."
Temperatures will cool further into next week. In its outlook for Sunday to Tuesday, the Met Office said: "Largely dry with bright or sunny spells on Sunday and Monday, but also some cloud. Turning breezier mid-week with the chance of rain. Temperatures near average."
Liverpool weather forecast: Friday, August 14 - 23C; Saturday, August 15 - 20C; Sunday, August 16 - 20C; Monday, August 17 - 23C; Tuesday, August 18 - 21C; Wednesday, August 19 - 18C; Thursday, August 20 - 19C.
