The UK is set to swelter under unprecedented temperatures next week, with parts of England facing their first ever 'red extreme heat' warning. Temperatures could soar above 40°C in some areas, potentially shattering the current record of 38.7°C set in Cambridge in 2019.
Central and eastern England are most at risk, with red warnings issued for London, Manchester, and parts of Yorkshire. While not all affected areas have been named by the Met Office, towns and cities within these regions are expected to feel the heat. Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland are also facing amber extreme heat warnings, though temperatures won't reach the same record-breaking levels as England.
Forecasts indicate temperatures of 35°C to 38°C will blanket much of the country, with isolated peaks reaching up to 40°C. Temperatures won't drop below 25°C in some urban areas at night, providing little respite from the heat. Light winds are expected to offer little relief.
Health experts warn that vulnerable individuals - including the elderly and those with pre-existing conditions - will be most at risk during this extreme heatwave. Emergency services anticipate a surge in heat-related incidents, and public health bodies are urging the public to take precautions.
The Met Office advises staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water, avoiding peak sun hours (11 am-4 pm), and keeping out of direct sunlight when possible. Vulnerable neighbours should be checked on regularly, and pets given access to shade and water.
Conditions are expected to ease slightly from Wednesday, but temperatures will remain high across the UK for the remainder of the week. Isolated thunderstorms may also develop as the heat begins to break.