Weather forecast models indicate that the UK is poised to experience its hottest day of the year in the upcoming week. The current temperature record for 2026 stands at 37.7C, recorded on June 26 in Lingwood, Norfolk. However, there are suggestions that temperatures could exceed 37C again next week.
According to the GFS weather model, maximum temperatures are expected to reach 34C on Wednesday in southern England, spanning from Gloucestershire to Surrey. South Wales may see temperatures hitting 31C, while the Midlands could reach as high as 33C.
The model predicts that temperatures could soar to 36C across western and southern England on Thursday, with temperatures reaching 33C in areas as far north as Yorkshire and 28C in southern Scotland.
By Friday, western and south-east England could experience temperatures of at least 37C, with 36C being possible in central England and southern regions. Saturday’s forecast includes potential highs of 36C in East Anglia, 33C in Yorkshire, 36C in the south-east, and 33-34C in the Midlands, marking a four-day heatwave.
Temperature anomaly maps for the following week show the UK shaded in deep red, indicating temperatures significantly above the seasonal average. The GFS model suggests that temperatures may surpass 37C in eight English counties.
The Met Office anticipates a return to ‘very warm or hot’ conditions later in the month, with the possibility of ‘thundery interludes.’ The forecast for August 9 to 18 suggests that high pressure could dominate the north or northwest of the UK, leading to unsettled conditions in southern and eastern regions.
Overall, temperatures are expected to remain above average, especially in the south, with the potential for very warm or hot weather in the coming weeks.
