UK braces for returning heatwave with temperatures up to 36C; 1995 heat record likely to be broken next week

The UK is bracing for a returning heatwave, with temperatures expected to reach up to 36C (97F) next week, potentially breaking the 1995 record. This year has already seen 33 days surpassing 30C, with health alerts issued amid drought conditions across much of the country.

Sky News9 August 2026 · 01:37 UTC

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The UK is preparing for a significant heatwave, with temperatures projected to reach 36C (97F) next week, potentially breaking the 1995 record of 34 days exceeding 30C.³⁴⁵⁶¹⁰

So far this year, there have been 33 days with temperatures above 30C.

Sky News meteorologist Chris England noted, "Temperatures are climbing again, with heatwave thresholds likely to be exceeded for an unprecedented fifth time this year." ⁹

England is expected to be the hottest region, with 36C possible on Wednesday and Thursday, while Wales is also likely to experience high temperatures.

Both May and June have already broken monthly temperature records, and July has been the driest on record.¹

As a result, the UK is facing severe drought conditions, with the whole of Wales and half of England now affected.

The UK Health Security Agency has issued warnings about the potential for the highest number of heat-associated deaths in history, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation.⁷⁸

Yellow heat health alerts are currently in effect until 9pm on Thursday, underscoring the urgency of the heatwave's impact on public health and safety.

Key Insight

“The UK has already seen 33 days above 30C this year, just one short of the 34-day record from 1995, with 33C forecast in southern areas on Sunday. The UK Health Security Agency warns Britain is on track for the highest number of heat-associated deaths in history, with yellow heat health alerts in force until 9pm Thursday.”