Ethan Blackshaw

Weather models indicate that the UK could experience its fifth heatwave of the year, with temperatures forecast to rise into the mid-to-high 30s Celsius and potentially reach 39C in Gloucestershire on Thursday. Twelve English counties are identified as possible locations for temperatures of 38C or higher: Shropshire, Herefordshire, Worcestershire, Gloucestershire, Warwickshire, Staffordshire, Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Berkshire, Wiltshire, Hampshire and Northamptonshire. The Met Office is considering amber or red extreme heat warnings, while Scotland and Northern Ireland are expected to remain cooler. Forecast confidence is limited, but Thursday is currently considered the most likely hottest day of the week.

Weather models forecast a potential four-day heatwave across parts of the UK next week, with temperatures reaching up to 34°C in 15 English counties and above 30°C across much of England and Wales. The Met Office expects temperatures to remain above average, particularly in southern England, but says exceptional heat is unlikely and warns of possible thundery conditions in southern areas.

Weather-model forecasts indicate that parts of England could experience a fifth heatwave of 2026 from August 11, with temperatures potentially reaching 35C or higher in 11 counties, including Warwickshire, Lincolnshire, Northamptonshire, Hertfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire, Gloucestershire, Worcestershire, Herefordshire, Surrey and Cambridgeshire. The Midlands and southeast are expected to be hottest, while Yorkshire could reach 33C. The Met Office describes the wider period as changeable, with rain, showers and possible thunderstorms, but says very warm or hot spells remain possible, particularly in southern England.