The United Kingdom is bracing for its third heatwave of the year, with temperatures expected to reach up to 34°C in parts of southern England this week. While the heatwave will be widespread, it is not anticipated to break records like June's scorching spell, which saw temperatures hit 37.7°C.
How Long Will the Heatwave Last?
According to the Met Office, the current heatwave is likely to persist into the weekend, but with increasing humidity and a growing risk of showers or isolated thunderstorms. Early next week, temperatures are expected to cool down slightly, with many areas still staying dry, fine, and warm. The heatwave will affect most of England and Wales, as well as parts of Scotland and Northern Ireland, though temperatures in these areas are only likely to reach the upper 20s Celsius.
Temperature Forecast
Temperatures for southern parts of the UK include highs of around 32°C on Tuesday, rising to 33°C on Wednesday, 34°C on Thursday, and with isolated locations potentially reaching 35°C on Friday and Saturday. In contrast, June's heatwave saw a peak of 37.7°C, making this week's heat less intense but longer-lasting in many areas.
Met Office Deputy Chief Forecaster Steven Keates said: "Parts of the UK are entering heatwave conditions: the third heatwave in the UK so far this year. 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."
Night-Time Temperatures and Tropical Nights
Thankfully, night-time temperatures will not be as high as they were in June. However, some larger cities are likely to remain in the high teens Celsius overnight, especially later in the week, and there is a chance that a tropical night (where temperatures do not fall below 20°C) may be recorded in a few places, the Met Office said.
Health Advice and Precautions
As always, people are advised to take sensible precautions in the heat, including staying hydrated, avoiding prolonged exposure to the sun during the hottest part of the day, and checking on vulnerable friends, family, and neighbours. Sun protection is also crucial, with UV levels expected to be high or very high across many parts of the UK throughout the week.
A period of hot weather is only considered a heatwave when temperatures meet or exceed the daily maximum for that time of year for three consecutive days. This week's heatwave is the third such event in the UK in 2026.
