Heat Health Alerts Issued as UK Faces Potential Fifth Heatwave of the Year
Forecasters say temperatures could climb to 36C in parts of England, increasing health risks for vulnerable people and putting pressure on services.
By Sky News
Heat health alerts are in force across several parts of England as forecasters warn the UK could be heading into another widespread heatwave, with temperatures potentially reaching 36C later this week.
The Met Office says conditions are expected to become increasingly hot as high pressure builds, with temperatures rising through the early part of the week before peaking in some areas on Thursday.
The hottest conditions are currently forecast for East Anglia and south-east England, where temperatures could reach 36C. Much of England and Wales is also expected to experience very warm or hot weather, with highs of around 32C to 34C possible in several regions.
The UK Health Security Agency has issued yellow heat-health alerts for the East Midlands, East of England, London, South East, South West, West Midlands and Yorkshire and the Humber.
The alerts warn of a potential increase in health risks, particularly for people aged over 65 and those with existing medical conditions. Hot weather can also place additional pressure on hospitals, care homes and community health services.
Cheshire is not currently covered by a yellow heat-health alert, but temperatures across the North West are still expected to rise as warmer air spreads across the country.
The Met Office defines a heatwave as a period of at least three consecutive days when daily maximum temperatures meet or exceed a specific threshold for the local area. Those thresholds vary across the UK because average summer temperatures differ between regions.
If enough locations meet the criteria, the latest spell could become the fifth widespread heatwave of 2026 following a succession of unusually hot periods earlier in the summer.
Forecasters say humidity is also expected to increase, which could make conditions feel particularly uncomfortable and lead to warmer nights in some areas.
People are being advised to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged exposure to strong sunshine during the hottest part of the day and check on older or vulnerable relatives, friends and neighbours.
The Met Office says the forecast may continue to change as the week develops, with the highest temperatures currently expected in eastern and south-eastern England.