The UK heatwave will peak on Thursday before temperatures ease from Friday, with cooler air expected to spread from the northwest, according to the Met Office.
Heat to build through the week
After a brief dip on Monday, temperatures will begin to rise day-by-day from Tuesday, leading to a "fairly widespread heatwave" for England and Wales, with highs potentially reaching 36C.
Met Office Chief Forecaster Jason Kelly said: "Heat will gradually build this week, with temperatures reaching into the mid-30s Celsius in what will be a fairly widespread heatwave for England and Wales."
The heat is driven by high pressure becoming dominant, bringing sunshine and allowing temperatures to build. Southerly or southeasterly winds will tap into hot conditions over Europe, making Thursday the likely peak.
Health alerts in force
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued yellow and amber heat-health alerts for England this week. Amber alerts are in force for most regions, excluding north east England, from 9am on Tuesday to 9am on Friday.
The alerts warn of significant impacts on health and social care services, including a potential rise in deaths, particularly among those aged 65 and over or with health conditions.
Cooler air from Friday
Met Office Deputy Chief Forecaster David Oliver said: "While Thursday will be the peak of the heat this week, some warmth will remain in the south and southeast on Friday, before easing more widely on Saturday as cooler air spreads south from the northwest."
High pressure may retain some influence in the south later in the weekend but could weaken into early next week, potentially allowing showers or longer spells of rain to spread across parts of the UK.
