The UK is bracing for its fifth recorded Amber Extreme Heat warning since 2021, as temperatures are set to soar up to 35C in parts of southern and eastern England and south Wales. The warning, issued by the Met Office, will be in effect from Monday to Tuesday, putting vulnerable individuals at risk of health concerns such as sunburn, heat exhaustion and dehydration.
This extreme heatwave is forecast to follow a brief respite on Saturday, when temperatures dropped to 27-28C in south-east England. However, the mercury is expected to rise rapidly from Sunday onwards, with Monday and Tuesday potentially reaching highs of 34-35C in some areas. Overnight temperatures will remain high, staying above 20C in many locations.
The heatwave criteria will be met in large parts of England and Wales, with high or very high UV levels and very high pollen counts also anticipated. As a result, the public is advised to take precautions such as staying hydrated, seeking shade during peak hours (11 am to 3 pm) and wearing light, loose-fitting clothing. Travellers are urged to plan ahead for potential delays and check transport updates.
For those in Scotland and Northern Ireland, while avoiding the most extreme heat, temperatures will still reach the low to mid-20s Celsius. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued separate Amber and Yellow Heat Health Alerts for southern and eastern England, highlighting potential significant impacts on health and social care services.
The combination of high daytime temperatures and warm nights poses a significant challenge for many, particularly the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions. There is also a possibility of localised heavy downpours and thunderstorms, adding to disruption. Residents are advised to stay informed through official Met Office updates and local news channels as the heatwave progresses.