Highs of 35C are forecast to sear through parts of London and south-east England today as a heatwave takes hold of the UK, sending the mercury soaring to potentially dangerous levels
Weather maps for today show the exact areas Brits will swelter as a 35C heatwave tears through the British Isles.
While many will be rejoicing another blast as the furnace heats up, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has warned today – which looks set to be the hottest day of the year – could pose serious health risks.
They have issued an amber alert, which is in place until 6pm tomorrow, advising people to check on their vulnerable friends and family members, and to take proper precautions due to the risks of the sun’s rays.
The hottest temperatures are predicted for south-east England and London, where scorching highs of 35C are expected. The Home Counties will also feel the heat, with the mercury teetering between 30 and a stifling 34.
The heatwave will stretch further north, with the Midlands blasted with 33C highs, travelling up to the north of England, where 30C conditions will be seen in areas like Manchester, Leeds and York.
The maps show the glowing red furnace stopping just south of Newcastle, but the rest of the country will still feel the heat with temperatures not falling below 14C nationwide.
It comes after the London Fire Brigade raised the risk of wildfires gripping the country due to low rainfall in recent months paired with the searing hot temperatures.
Assistant commissioner Thomas Goodall said: “London is already facing its second heatwave of the year and we know that people will be looking forward to getting outside to enjoy the wonderful weather.
“But the high temperatures and low rainfall in recent months means the current risk of wildfires is severe. During this latest heatwave, it is important everyone acts responsibly to prevent fires from occurring. As the weather has been so dry, it only takes a few sparks to lead to a fire spreading rapidly.”
The Met Office says it records an official heatwave when high temperatures are detected in an area for three consecutive days. Usually, the mercury will need to be between 25 and 28C for them to do so.
With the glorious sunshine comes a risk to life. According to NHS figures, 30 people died between 2013 and 2022 from exposure to excessive natural heat. In that time period, there were around 2,100 hospital admissions for the same condition.
Steve Cole, Policy Director for the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA), said: “Heat is no longer just a holiday perk—it’s a growing public health risk.
“We’re seeing more frequent and intense heatwaves, both in the UK and globally, and the data shows a clear rise in heat-related illness and fatalities.
“Warm weather can also be deceptive when it comes to going for a dip. While the air may feel hot, water temperatures often remain dangerously cold, which can lead to cold water shock, even in summer.”