UK faces new heatwave as temperatures climb

A new heatwave has begun to sweep across the United Kingdom, with the Met Office forecasting temperatures that could reach the mid‑30s Celsius in parts of England and Wales over the next several days. The system is driven by a high‑pressure ridge that is expected to dominate the southern and central regions, bringing clear skies, strong sunshine and relatively low wind speeds. Forecasts also indicate that humidity levels will be higher than during the previous heat event, raising the heat‑index and making conditions feel more oppressive, particularly in urban areas such as London, Birmingham and Manchester.

Authorities have issued heat‑health alerts for vulnerable groups, and the public is being advised to stay hydrated, limit outdoor activity during peak hours and seek shade where possible. Schools and workplaces are reviewing contingency plans, while transport operators warn of possible disruptions on rail and road networks due to track expansion and increased traffic congestion. The current spell follows the late‑May heatwave that set record temperatures earlier this year, and while the absolute highs may be slightly lower, the combination of heat and moisture is expected to make the experience feel comparable, if not more uncomfortable, for many residents.