Amber Extreme Heat Warning Issued
The Met Office has issued an amber Extreme Heat warning covering parts of southern and eastern England as well as south Wales.
The warning is in effect for Monday and Tuesday, with temperatures expected to peak at 35C (95F).
Nights will also remain warm, with temperatures staying above 20C in some areas.
The warning highlights potential health impacts, particularly for vulnerable populations, including risks of sunburn and heat exhaustion.
Some disruption and travel delays are also anticipated due to the extreme heat conditions.
This marks only the fifth amber Extreme Heat warning issued by the Met Office since the system was introduced in 2021, and the first since the 40C heatwave in 2022, during which a red warning was also issued.
This warning is distinct from the amber and yellow Heat Health Alerts previously issued by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).
Those alerts, valid for regions of southern and eastern England until Tuesday, warn of significant impacts on health and social care services, with an expected increase in deaths among elderly and vulnerable individuals.
In contrast, the Met Office's amber Extreme Heat warning indicates that the heat will affect the general population more broadly.
Temperature Forecast
Temperatures on Friday are forecast to reach 31-32C (88-90F) in south-east England, while northern and western parts of the UK will remain cooler with ongoing rain.
On Saturday, slightly cooler air is expected from the west, though highs of 27 or 28C (81-82F) will still be likely.
Heat will build again from Sunday, with temperatures on Monday and Tuesday predicted to peak at 34 or 35C (93-95F) in south-east England.
By this time, large areas of England and Wales will experience highs in the high-20s or low-30s Celsius.
It is very likely that many locations will meet the official heatwave criteria.
Extended periods of sunshine will result in high or very high UV levels, and pollen counts are also forecast to be very high in some areas.
High humidity will contribute to discomfort, and overnight temperatures may remain above 20C (68F) in some places, providing little relief from the heat.
Additional Weather Conditions
Some heavy downpours and thunderstorms are possible, which could cause localized disruption.
Scotland and Northern Ireland are expected to avoid the most intense heat but will still see temperatures in the low to mid-20s Celsius.
Health and Safety Advice
The Met Office and UKHSA advise the public to take precautions to stay cool and hydrated during the heatwave, especially vulnerable groups such as the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions.
"The amber Extreme Heat warning highlights the risk of health impacts including sunburn and heat exhaustion, and the potential for travel disruption," the Met Office stated.
Residents are encouraged to follow guidance on protecting themselves and their homes during the hot weather.
Summary
The amber Extreme Heat warning signals a significant heatwave affecting much of southern and eastern England and south Wales, with temperatures reaching up to 35C. The heatwave poses health risks and may cause travel disruptions, marking one of the most severe heat warnings since 2021.
