Amber heat health alerts are in effect for almost all of England as the country braces for a new heatwave, with temperatures set to intensify and become more widespread on Wednesday.
Temperatures are forecast to exceed 30C (86F) in areas stretching from South Yorkshire to east Wales, Somerset, and across eastern England. Some warmth is also expected to spread north into Scotland and Northern Ireland, with temperatures reaching the low to mid-20s Celsius.
Peak Heat Expected Midweek
The most extreme temperatures are anticipated in the Midlands and southeast England, where mercury could climb to 31C to 33C (88F to 91F) on Wednesday. By Thursday and Friday, these areas could see highs of 35C to 36C (95F to 97F).
This building heat is expected to lead to uncomfortably warm nights, with minimum temperatures potentially remaining between 16C to 18C (61F to 64F) across England and Wales. In southeast England, there is even a possibility of "tropical nights," where temperatures stay above 20C (68F) all night.
While the current heatwave is not expected to be as intense or humid as those experienced in June and July, the BBC understands that the Met Office may consider issuing extreme heat warnings. Such warnings would indicate potential impacts not only on health but also on infrastructure, including transport networks and power lines.
The UK has already experienced a notable year for high temperatures. In June and July, the highest recorded temperatures reached 38C (100.4F) and 35.5C (95.9F) respectively. For the first time in recorded history, the UK is anticipating a period where temperatures exceeding 35C (95F) have been recorded for four consecutive months.