A large area of high pressure is moving in, triggering a stretch of exceptionally warm weather across England, Wales and parts of Scotland and Northern Ireland, according to Met Office.
Britain is on the cusp of experiencing its first official heatwave of the year, with forecasters warning that temperatures could climb above 30°C (86°F) across parts of the country later this week.
According to the Met Office, a large area of high pressure is moving in, triggering a stretch of exceptionally warm weather across England, Wales and parts of Scotland and Northern Ireland. By the weekend, some areas may surpass the highest temperature recorded so far this year — 29.4°C (85°F) in Suffolk on 13 June.
The BBC reports that the warmest conditions are likely to be felt in East Anglia and south-east England on Monday and Tuesday before the heat expands northwards and westwards into the Midlands, east Wales, and parts of northern England. Met Office meteorologists expect temperatures to rise sharply throughout the week — with Monday hitting around 26°C, rising to 28°C by midweek, and soaring to between 30°C and 33°C by Saturday.
To qualify as a heatwave, the UK must experience temperatures at or above regional thresholds — ranging from 25°C in western and northern areas to 28°C in the south-east — for at least three consecutive days.
In contrast, Scotland and Northern Ireland are forecast to see more modest highs in the low 20s, though conditions will still feel markedly warmer than in recent weeks.
To qualify as a heatwave, the UK must experience temperatures at or above regional thresholds — ranging from 25°C in western and northern areas to 28°C in the south-east — for at least three consecutive days. While brief hot spells have occurred in recent weeks, none have been sustained enough to officially trigger heatwave status. That, however, appears likely to change by the weekend.
Looking ahead to Sunday, meteorologists say the outlook becomes more uncertain. Some weather models suggest fresher, cooler air could sweep in from the Atlantic, possibly bringing thundery downpours that may break the heat. Other models, however, show continued high temperatures particularly in south-east England and East Anglia, where values could remain above 30°C into early next week.
Experts have repeatedly warned that climate change is making heatwaves more frequent and intense in the UK. The implications are wide-ranging, from strain on transport infrastructure — such as train delays due to overheated tracks — to serious health impacts. Prolonged exposure to extreme heat can trigger a spike in heat-related illnesses, especially among the elderly and those with pre-existing medical conditions.
In response, health authorities are closely monitoring the situation. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) may issue heat-health alerts in the coming days to alert hospitals and care providers to the increased risks, especially for vulnerable populations.
This potential heatwave serves as a reminder of the challenges posed by a warming climate. Last summer saw several UK regions repeatedly breach the heatwave threshold, with record-breaking temperatures putting pressure on emergency services and public health systems. If this week’s forecasts hold true, the summer of 2025 could be headed in a similar direction.
For now, Britons are being advised to take precautions: stay hydrated, avoid strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest parts of the day, and check in on elderly neighbours or relatives who may be at greater risk.
