An Amber extreme heat warning has been issued by the Met Office for much of southern England and southeastern Wales, effective from Monday morning until the end of Tuesday.
This warning signals a developing hot spell expected to peak on Monday and Tuesday, leading to widespread impacts on people and infrastructure. Temperatures are forecast to reach 34°C across southern England, with a chance of hitting 35°C at Heathrow Airport on Tuesday.
There is a 40% chance of exceeding the current UK June maximum temperature record of 35.6°C, set in 1957 and 1976, according to Met Office Deputy Chief Forecaster Greg Wolverson.
Who is affected and where
The Met Office warning covers southern England and southeastern Wales. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), in partnership with the Met Office, has also issued Amber Heat Health Alerts for the South West, South East, London, and the East of England, in force until 8 pm on Tuesday. Yellow alerts are in place for the East and West Midlands.
"A developing hot spell is expected to peak on Monday and Tuesday and lead to widespread impacts on people and infrastructure." — Met Office (June 19, 2026)
Vulnerable individuals, including older adults and those with pre-existing health conditions, are particularly at risk during sustained periods of warm weather. The UKHSA advises checking on friends, family, and neighbours who are more vulnerable.
What to do immediately
Take immediate action to protect yourself and others during this extreme heat period:
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, even if you don't feel thirsty.
- Keep cool by staying in the shade, wearing light clothing, and avoiding strenuous activity during the hottest parts of the day (11 am to 3 pm).
- Check on vulnerable friends, family, and neighbours, ensuring they are keeping cool and hydrated.
- Never leave children or pets unattended in parked vehicles.
- If you are near water, be aware of the risks. The RNLI warns that cold water shock can occur even in warm weather, causing a sudden increase in breathing and heart rate.
But there are risks
While many may welcome the hot weather, the Met Office warns of potential impacts. Historically, the summer of 2022 saw an estimated 2,985 deaths associated with five heat periods in England. The frequency and intensity of heatwaves have increased worldwide, with Met Office projections indicating more frequent hot spells in the UK's future climate, particularly over the south-east.
"With warmer weather approaching, it's important to remember that the water is still cold. Entering it unexpectedly can lead to cold water shock, causing a sudden increase in breathing and heart rate, which may trigger panic." — Samantha Hughes, National Water Safety Partner at the RNLI (June 19, 2026)
What this means for you
Your daily routine will be affected by this heatwave. Expect potential disruptions to travel and infrastructure, and be prepared for uncomfortable conditions, especially if you live in southern England or southeastern Wales. Prioritise staying cool and hydrated, and be mindful of the health of those around you.
Sources
- Met Office — Amber extreme heat warning and temperature forecasts (June 19, 2026)
- UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) — Amber and Yellow Heat Health Alerts (June 18, 2026)
- Met Office Deputy Chief Forecaster Greg Wolverson — Statement on temperature records (June 19, 2026)
- Dr Agostinho Sousa, Head of Extreme Events and Health Protection at UKHSA — Advice on heat precautions (September 2023)
- Samantha Hughes, National Water Safety Partner at the RNLI — Water safety advice (June 19, 2026)