The Met Office has confirmed that the current UK heatwave will persist until at least next week, with temperatures continuing to exceed 30°C across England and Wales. A provisional maximum of 33°C was recorded in Yelverton, Devon, on Saturday, July 11.
Record-breaking temperatures
2026 has become the first year where temperatures of 35°C were recorded in the UK on six separate days, breaking the previous record of five days held by 1976 and 2020. This year also marks the first time temperatures of 35°C or higher have been recorded across three calendar months, and the summer has already seen nine days with temperatures of 34°C or higher, a new record.
Wildfire warnings
Emergency services have warned of an 'extreme' risk of wildfires this weekend. The London Fire Brigade has urged people not to use disposable barbecues due to the dry heat. Craig Snell, a Met Office forecaster, said: "Saturday, 33°C is still well above average for the time of year. The very hot conditions are going to continue to remain across the UK until at least next week."
Health alerts
Amber heat health alerts have been issued by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) for the West Midlands and the South West, from 9am on Sunday, July 12, until 9pm on Wednesday, July 15. These alerts indicate significant impacts are likely across health and social care services, including a rise in deaths, particularly among those aged 65 and over or with health conditions. Yellow heat health alerts will be in place for the East Midlands, the North West, the South East, the East of England, and London during the same period.
Water safety concerns
The UKHSA has warned of a potential increase in water-related incidents, including cold water shock and drowning. Three people have died in water-related incidents in recent days: an 18-year-old man at Darley Abbey Mills near Derby, another 18-year-old man at Dovestone Reservoir in Oldham, and a woman at Falls of Falloch in Stirling, Scotland.
UV and pollen levels
The Met Office has warned of 'high' or 'very high' UV levels this weekend, with a UV level of eight forecast for most of England and Wales on Sunday. Pollen levels are also expected to be 'high' or 'very high' in some areas, particularly in Wales and the South West of England.
Mr Snell advised: "During the hot weather, make sure to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged exposure to the sun and check on friends and family. If you're planning on enjoying the seaside, check the water temperature. The water still can be quite cold so make sure you're fully aware of that to avoid cold water shocks." He also noted that people should be mindful of waves on the south coast as some strong wind could develop in the coming days.
