The Met Office has issued a UK red heat warning for Wednesday and Thursday, with temperatures expected to peak at least 39C before easing from Friday. The warning covers parts of England, Wales and the Midlands, while overnight temperatures in urban areas are not expected to fall below 20C.
On Tuesday, southern England was forecast to reach 37C and south-east Wales 35C. The next two days are the critical period for people in the South of England, the Midlands and Wales who have been told to expect the highest heat.
Dr Agostinho Sousa on UKHSA
Heat health alerts have also been issued by the UK Health Security Agency. Dr Agostinho Sousa, head of extreme events and health protection at UKHSA, said: “A red heat health alert indicates a risk to life for even the healthy population, but simple actions like staying hydrated, avoiding the sun during the hottest part of the day, and keeping your home cool can make a big difference.”
He added: “It’s also important to look out for others, especially elderly relatives, neighbours, and those with underlying health conditions, to make sure they are aware of the forecast and following the necessary advice.”
Met Office Friday forecast
The Met Office said high pressure is forecast to move east on Friday and through the weekend, which will ease temperatures slightly, though those in the South East will retain the exceptional warmth the longest. Friday is likely to see some rain and cloud arrive from the West for a time, particularly in the North West, and eastern areas were forecast to see highs of 32C.
By Sunday, temperatures could be 15C cooler. London was forecast to reach 25C and Cardiff 20C, while the Met Office said the weekend would bring a gradual transition to a more westerly influence and further cooling into the start of next week.
England and Wales for
For people in England and Wales, the practical message is to act before the peak rather than after it. The hottest spell is concentrated on Wednesday and Thursday, the nights stay warm, and the easing begins from Friday — but the South East holds onto the heat longest, so the slowest relief is expected there.
