Temperatures in the United Kingdom are expected to surpass 30C (86F) for potentially 10 consecutive days as the third heatwave of the year begins.
Starting midweek, the heat is predicted to intensify with some areas reaching up to 34C (93F).
Amber heat-health alerts have been issued by the UK Health Security Agency covering the Midlands, eastern, and southern England from 09:00 BST on 8 July until 21:00 BST on 12 July.
Simultaneously, yellow heat-health alerts are in place across northern England for the same timeframe.
These high temperatures are likely to cause significant impacts on health and social care services, including an increase in deaths, particularly among individuals aged 65 and over or those with pre-existing health conditions.
Temperatures to intensify from midweek
Temperatures will rise above average over the coming days as another significant heatwave develops across Europe
Parts of south-east England met official heatwave conditions as of Monday afternoon, with more regions expected to meet their local thresholds as the week progresses.
Heat is forecast to build from Wednesday, with temperatures across England and east Wales reaching the high 20s and low 30s Celsius.
London and south-east England are expected to experience the highest temperatures, potentially peaking around 34C on Wednesday and Thursday.
What is an official heatwave in the UK?
This heatwave is unlikely to be as extreme as the late June event, when temperatures peaked at a record-breaking 37.7C.
However, some weather forecasting models indicate a possibility that parts of the UK could see temperatures in the mid- to high 30s later in the week.
Heatwave to last longer but nights to bring some relief
Unlike the last heatwave, which featured several nights with temperatures not falling below 20C (68F) — known as tropical nights — this upcoming spell of hot weather is expected to be more forgiving.
Nighttime temperatures are not anticipated to be as high as those experienced in June, although some larger urban areas may remain in the high teens overnight, especially later in the week.
It remains possible that a tropical night could be recorded in a few locations.
While this heatwave will allow for some overnight relief, its duration will distinguish it from those seen in May and June.
Current forecasts suggest temperatures could exceed 30C somewhere in the UK for up to 10 consecutive days.
During the June heatwave, temperatures exceeded 30C somewhere in the UK for seven consecutive days, and in the May heatwave, for six days.
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