The Prime Minister is set to chair a meeting of the Cobra emergency committee today, Wednesday 12 August 2026, in response to extreme heat, which has led to wildfires and drought in many parts of Britain.
Andy Burnham will meet with ministers, officials, and agencies this afternoon as high temperatures continue across the UK. Temperatures of 33C are forecast for today, with predictions of up to 38C on Thursday.
This marks the second Cobra meeting this year concerning heatwaves, following a previous gathering in June. Ministers from Defra, the Home Office, the Health Department, and officials from the Environment Agency are expected to attend.
A Downing Street spokesperson stated that the government acknowledges the challenges faced by firefighters, farmers, and NHS staff due to the weather. The Met Office has indicated that the UK is on track for its hottest summer on record, with some areas experiencing their fifth heatwave this summer.
Amber "extreme heat" warnings have been issued by the Met Office for London and parts of the south-east, East Midlands, east of England, West Midlands, and South Yorkshire, effective from 9am to midnight on Thursday.
The government has urged the public to heed UK Health Security Agency heat alerts, advising people to drink plenty of fluids and check on high-risk family, friends, and neighbours.
Nearly three-quarters of England and the whole of Wales are currently in drought conditions, following a record dry July and a very dry start to August, which has strained water resources.