Weather maps indicate that the United Kingdom is likely to experience its fourth heatwave of the year before the end of July, with temperatures expected to surpass 30 degrees Celsius across significant parts of England. Currently, Britons are enduring the third heatwave of the year, which has persisted for nine days. On Monday, temperatures soared to 30.1 degrees Celsius in Hurn, Dorset, marking the ninth consecutive day where the 30-degree mark was exceeded in some areas of the country.
The ongoing July heatwave has outlasted the second heatwave of 2026, which lasted seven days in June. However, June experienced higher temperatures and humidity due to a ‘heat dome,’ resulting in record-breaking temperatures across the nation.
In 2026, there have been a total of 24 days, both consecutive and non-consecutive, where temperatures have exceeded 30 degrees Celsius in different locations in the UK. This figure matches the number of 30-degree-plus days recorded in 1976, a year known for its memorable heatwave and drought conditions.
Although the Met Office forecasts a decline in temperatures towards the end of this week and into the next, long-term weather predictions from WXCharts suggest that temperatures could reach heatwave levels in multiple areas starting from Friday, July 24. The forecast indicates highs of 32 degrees Celsius for Sunday, July 26, and Monday, July 27.
WXCharts weather projections depict temperatures between 30 to 32 degrees Celsius across central and southern England, the Midlands, parts of Wales, the North West, and Yorkshire on Sunday, July 26. Similarly, temperatures are anticipated to exceed 30 degrees Celsius in London, the east of England, the Midlands, and parts of Yorkshire on Monday, July 27.
With over a month and a half of summer remaining, 2026 has yet to surpass the 1995 record of 34 days with temperatures exceeding 30 degrees Celsius. Nevertheless, 2026 has already set a new record by registering temperatures of 35 degrees Celsius or higher on six separate days and witnessing nine days above 34 degrees Celsius.
The Met Office has stated that the current heatwave is expected to persist across much of the UK this week, with temperatures potentially reaching 33 degrees Celsius on Wednesday in certain parts of southern-central England. Subsequently, temperatures are projected to decrease by the latter part of the week, settling in the mid to high-20s for many by Saturday.
Looking ahead to the upcoming week, Met Office meteorologist Alex Burkall mentioned on the Met Office YouTube channel that temperatures will slightly decrease, with highs gradually easing into the high 20s. He also highlighted that temperatures are less likely to hit 30 degrees Celsius on Friday compared to earlier in the week.
“Temperatures are set to drop slightly further on Saturday, although the weather is expected to remain dry.”