The UK is experiencing no respite from its week-long July heatwave, with health alerts extended and a wildfire warning issued. Most of the country remains gripped by the third hot spell of summer, now prolonged until next week, as temperatures continue to top 30°C. Londoners have endured tropical nights, and the hot, humid conditions are expected to persist.
Hosepipe bans and drought fears
Hosepipe bans have been imposed for millions east of London, including Essex, amid growing drought concerns. The capital is under a limited use advisory. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has extended amber and yellow heat alerts until next week.
Wildfire risk in London
The London Fire Brigade has urged the public not to use disposable barbecues and to extinguish cigarettes properly due to the risk of fires sparked by dry heat. The wildfire risk level has been extended until at least Monday. Crews tackled a grass fire in Hornchurch Country Park, east London, while firefighters in West Sussex battled a forest fire at Devil's Dyke.
Health alerts in place
The UKHSA issued a second-highest amber heat health alert for the West Midlands and South West, active from 9am Sunday until 9pm Wednesday. This indicates significant impacts likely on health and social care services, including a rise in deaths, particularly among those aged 65 and over or with health conditions. Yellow heat health alerts are in place for the East Midlands, North West, South East, East of England, and London, also from 9am Sunday to 9pm Wednesday. The UKHSA warned that sudden exposure to cold open water could lead to shock and drowning. Three people have died in water-related incidents in recent days.
When will the heatwave end?
Temperatures will surge close to 30°C in London, the South West, and Wales on Monday, while northern England will see mid-twenties or below. High or very high UV levels are expected across the UK. There is a chance of thundery showers in some southern parts on Monday, but the week ahead is largely dry, sunny, and hot. Thunder will become more widespread by Thursday, bringing showers, though temperatures will remain in the high 20s. A cooler north wind is expected towards the end of the week, pushing low pressure north.
Temperature records shattered
A provisional maximum daily temperature of 35°C was recorded in Yelverton, Devon, on Saturday, according to the Met Office. 2026 has become the first year with six separate days of 35°C or higher in the UK, breaking the previous record of five days set in 1976 and 2020. It is also the first year to see 35°C across three calendar months and has broken the record for most days at 34°C or higher, with nine so far this summer. Despite the July scorcher, the Met Office has not issued any extreme weather warnings, unlike during the June heatwave.
