A Red Extreme Heat Warning has been issued by the Met Office for Wednesday, June 24, and Thursday, June 25, 2026. This is a critical alert, indicating a significant risk to life and widespread disruption.
The warning covers southern Wales, extending west to Swansea, and a large area of England. This includes London, inland Kent and Sussex, across to Somerset, north-west to Birmingham, and north-east towards parts of the Midlands. Temperatures are forecast to reach up to 40°C, with June temperature records expected to break.
This level of heat poses a substantial risk to health, infrastructure, and daily life. It is crucial that everyone in the affected areas takes immediate action to protect themselves and others.
Who is affected?
Residents across southern Wales, London, Kent, Sussex, Somerset, Birmingham, and surrounding regions are directly affected. Vulnerable individuals, including the elderly, young children, and those with pre-existing health conditions, are at particular risk. The extreme heat will also impact travel, workplaces, and public services.
What to do immediately
Follow these urgent steps to stay safe during the Red Extreme Heat Warning:
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, even if you don't feel thirsty. Avoid excessive alcohol, caffeine, and sugary drinks.
- Stay Cool Indoors: Keep windows and curtains closed during the day to block out heat. Open them at night when it's cooler. Consider moving to the coolest room in your home.
- Avoid Peak Heat: Limit strenuous activity between 11 AM and 4 PM, when temperatures are highest. If you must go out, stay in the shade.
- Check on Others: Look out for vulnerable friends, family, and neighbours. Ensure they are coping with the heat and have access to water and a cool environment.
- Dress Appropriately: Wear loose, light-coloured clothing and a wide-brimmed hat if outdoors.
- Know the Signs of Heatstroke: Be aware of symptoms like confusion, dizziness, nausea, and rapid pulse. If you suspect heatstroke, call 999 immediately.
- Travel Safely: Expect significant disruption to road and rail travel. Check for delays before you travel and carry water if your journey is essential.
What this means for you
The Red Extreme Heat Warning means that the risk to life is high, and daily routines will be severely impacted. You must adjust your plans and take proactive measures to avoid heat-related illness and disruption.
The other side
While the Met Office warning is clear on the immediate risks, the long-term implications of such extreme heat events in June are still being assessed. Experts continue to monitor climate patterns to understand the frequency of these record-breaking temperatures.
Sources
- Met Office — Red Extreme Heat Warning issuance
- BBC — UK weather: Red extreme heat warning issued by Met Office as 40C forecast
- ITVX — Met Office issues red warning for record-breaking heatwave of up to 40C
- The Guardian — Record-breaking heat expected across UK this week, says Met Office