Weather forecast models indicate that the UK may experience its hottest day of the year in the upcoming week. The current highest temperature recorded in 2026 is 37.7C, registered on June 26 in Lingwood, Norfolk. However, there is a possibility that temperatures could surpass 37C again next week.
According to the GFS weather model, maximum temperatures could reach 34C in southern England on Wednesday next week, covering an area from Gloucestershire to Surrey. South Wales might see temperatures hitting 31C, while the Midlands could rise to as high as 33C.
The model suggests that temperatures could reach 36C widely across western and southern England on Thursday, with temperatures climbing to 33C in parts of Yorkshire and 28C in southern Scotland.
By Friday next week, western and south-east England could experience highs of at least 37C, with 36C possible in central England and southern regions. Saturday’s forecast shows potential highs of 36C in East Anglia, 33C in Yorkshire, 36C in the south-east, and 33-34C in the Midlands, marking the onset of another official heatwave.
Temperature anomaly maps for the upcoming week depict the UK shaded in deep red, indicating areas where temperatures are expected to rise significantly above the seasonal average. The GFS model predicts that temperatures may exceed 37C in eight English counties next week.
The Met Office anticipates that conditions could turn very warm or hot later in the month, with a possibility of thundery weather as well. The forecast for August 9 to 18 suggests that high pressure may dominate towards the north or northwest of the UK, potentially leading to thundery conditions in southern and eastern regions, although rainfall amounts may vary. Temperatures are likely to remain above average, especially in the south, with the potential for very warm or hot weather.