The warning will be in force through much of Thursday and covers parts of southern and eastern England, as well as parts of the Midlands.

Met Office Chief Forecaster Chris Bulmer said: “While the peak heat will be more short-lived than recent heatwaves, temperatures widely into the mid-30s Celsius on Thursday brings the potential for impacts for some, which is why a Met Office warning has been issued.

“High pressure is now becoming dominant and temperatures will build day-by-day. Southerly and southeasterly winds will also tap into the hot conditions over Europe which helps develop this further notable heat in what has been a hot and dry summer so far for many in the south of the UK.”

The Met Office warning highlights likely health impacts, as well as potential water safety incidents and travel disruption. Some heat sensitive systems and equipment may also be disrupted, with the potential for power cuts in places.

The main exception to the dominant warm and sunny conditions this week will be north and northwest of Scotland, and at times parts of Northern Ireland, which will continue to see the influence of showery rain from the west at times.

Staying safe in the heat

The UK Health Security Agency, which looks at health impacts in England, has issued Heat Health Alerts, with forecast temperatures likely to cause an increased demand on health and social care services.

William Spencer, climate and first aid expert at the British Red Cross, said: “While periods of hot weather have become more familiar in recent years, they can still pose serious risks to health. In fact, after prolonged dry and warm conditions, it is more important than ever to follow heat safety advice.

“Simple steps such as wearing sunscreen, drinking plenty of fluids, seeking shade during the hottest parts of the day and taking regular breaks from the sun can help protect you and those around you. It’s also important to look out for the signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke, particularly among people who may be more vulnerable to the effects of extreme heat.

“Many communities are also experiencing drought conditions or are in areas at increased risk of wildfires. We encourage everyone to follow advice from local authorities and visit our website for practical guidance on staying safe and supporting anyone who may be at greater risk during periods of extreme heat.”

You can find water safety advice on our website and in the Met Office app, which now features a dedicated beach forecast with tide times, wave heights and sea-surface temperatures, as well as guidance on UV and pollen levels. 

Find more hot weather advice as part of WeatherReady.

With high temperatures and dry conditions continuing for many, wildfire continues to be a risk for some in the coming week. Find out more on reducing the risk of wildfires from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government. 

When will the heat ease?

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 is likely to retain some influence over the weather in the south of the UK later in the weekend but may begin to weaken into the start of next week. Details are uncertain, but this may allow showers or some longer spells of rain to spread across parts of the UK for a time.

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