The nation is set to swelter in the grip of its worst heatwave for decades, with temperatures soaring to 40°C in some areas and the Met Office warning of 'extreme heat' red weather alerts until 23:59 BST on Friday. Across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, a blanket of heat will persist, making every day feel like an oven.
An emergency hosepipe ban has been imposed by water companies in response to the severe drought caused by the prolonged hot spell. The ban prohibits non-essential use of hosepipes for activities such as watering gardens and washing cars – already a struggle due to record-low rainfall levels.
The Met Office has detailed regional temperature forecasts: England will reach 38-42°C, Scotland 27-33°C, Wales 32-36°C, and Northern Ireland 30-34°C. Wind speeds are moderate at 15-25 mph, but residents are being urged to stay hydrated, take breaks, and avoid strenuous activities during the hottest part of the day.
As NHS warnings echo caution on heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion and heatstroke, water companies stress the importance of reporting leaks or bursts to conserve precious water resources. Meanwhile, a £60 million government package will support farmers struggling with drought impacts.