The Met Office has forecasted that the scorching conditions in the UK will persist until at least next week, as the current heatwave is expected to continue. Temperatures exceeding 30C are anticipated in parts of England and Wales throughout Sunday and into the following week. Although there is a potential for thunderstorms in southern areas from Monday, most regions are likely to remain dry, sunny, and exceptionally hot in the upcoming days.
Yelverton, Devon, experienced a provisional maximum daily temperature of 33C on Saturday, as reported by the Met Office. This year, 2026 has seen six days with temperatures surpassing 35C, setting a new record compared to previous years like 1976 and 2020, which had five such days. Additionally, 2026 has seen 35C temperatures or higher across three calendar months, breaking the record with nine occurrences of temperatures at 34C or above this summer.
Emergency services have issued warnings about the heightened risk of wildfires over the weekend. The London Fire Brigade cautioned against using disposable barbecues due to the dry heat potentially leading to fires. The risk of wildfires in London escalated from “elevated” to “extreme” on Saturday, attributed to prolonged dry weather, heat, and wind speed, with the warning in effect until Monday.
The Metropolitan Police expressed concerns about an increase in emergency calls during England’s World Cup game against Norway on Saturday evening. To manage the surge in calls during the hot weather, the police advised the public to only dial 999 in case of immediate danger or a crime in progress, with other incidents to be reported online.
Forecaster Craig Snell emphasized that the current temperature of 33C remains well above average for this time of year, and the hot conditions are expected to persist across the UK until at least the following week. He advised people to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged sun exposure, and check on friends and family during the hot weather. Additionally, he recommended caution when enjoying seaside activities, suggesting awareness of water temperatures to prevent cold water shocks.
Amber heat health alerts were issued for the West Midlands and the South West by the UK Health Security Agency from 9am on Sunday until 9pm on Wednesday, indicating potential significant impacts on health and social care services due to high temperatures. Similar alerts were posted for other regions in England, accompanied by warnings of increased risks of water-related incidents, including cold water shock and drowning.
Tragic incidents of water-related deaths occurred recently, with three individuals losing their lives. Authorities recovered the body of an 18-year-old man near a weir at the Darley Abbey Mills complex in Derby, while another 18-year-old man died at Dovestone Reservoir in Oldham. Additionally, a woman’s body was found at the Falls of Falloch in Stirling after encountering difficulties in the water.
The Met Office highlighted the “high” or “very high” UV levels over the weekend, advising the use of sun protection when outdoors. An anticipated UV level of eight, categorized as “very high,” is expected for most parts of England and Wales on Sunday. Pollen levels are also projected to be “high” or “very high” in certain areas, particularly in Wales and the South West of England.
Water companies have imposed hosepipe bans in several regions, including the east of England, Cambridge, Hampshire, the Isle of Wight, and parts of Kent, due to strain on water supplies exacerbated by consecutive heatwaves following a record warm spring. The restrictions aim to conserve water resources, with Southern Water, Anglian Water, and Cambridge Water among the companies implementing temporary bans to manage the demand for water during the hot weather.
