The June 2026 heatwave in the UK has shattered multiple temperature records, with the mercury hitting 36.1°C in Hampshire on Wednesday 24 June, breaking the previous all-time June record of 35.6°C set in London in 1957 and matched in Southampton in 1976.
Extreme Temperatures Across the UK
From Monday 22 June to Saturday 27 June, the UK experienced extreme heat, with temperatures peaking on Wednesday and another scorcher expected on Friday. The heatwave forced workplaces, schools, and transport services to close or alter schedules.
Record-Breaking Heat and Tropical Nights
The heatwave also set a record for the hottest night, with Cardiff reporting a balmy 23.5°C. When temperatures remain above 20°C overnight, these are termed 'tropical nights'. The highest UK temperature ever recorded remains 40.3°C in July 2022.
Met Office Chief Forecaster Matthew Lehnert stated: "This is exceptional heat for June with temperature records expected to be broken this week. High humidity is an additional factor for this heatwave which will mean the heat will feel much more potent for many. When you couple all of this with the high overnight temperatures, with temperatures likely to stay above 20°C for large parts of England and Wales."
Outlook
With the extreme weather warning extended until Friday, there is a chance the record could be broken again. Temperatures are expected to cool from Sunday 28 June.
