The UK will enter its third heatwave in as many months this week – although temperatures are not expected to soar into record-breaking territory, the Met Office has said.
Parts of southern England are likely to see temperature highs of around 32C on Monday and Tuesday, rising to 33C on Wednesday and 34C on Thursday, with the highest readings of 35C forecast for isolated areas on Friday and Saturday, the forecaster said.
However, this week’s temperatures will not trouble the record books, with the 40.3C peak recorded in Coningsby, Lincolnshire, in July 2022 set to remain the UK’s hottest ever day.
Nonetheless, the Met Office has predicted parts of southern England will experience several days in the low thirties.
Its deputy chief forecaster, Steven Keates, says people should “take the usual precautions with the heat and the Sun”.
He said: “Parts of the UK are entering heatwave conditions: the third heatwave in the UK so far this year.
“However, unlike the May and June heatwaves, we are not expecting this heatwave to be record-breaking.
“Temperatures this week are not expected to reach the highs we witnessed last month, though parts of southern England in particular are likely to see several days in the low 30s, and few places could reach 34-35C later this week.”
The Met Office have also warned that later this week England could experience “tropical nights”, where temperatures do not fall below 20C.
Mainland Europe is expecting similar heat. Spain, Portugal and southern France are all forecasting high temperatures.
National Rail Enquiries has urged train passengers to check for updates over the coming days because of the forecast heatwave.
Heat-related problems that can affect the railway include buckled rails, sagging overhead electric wires and lineside fires.
Steel rails can exceed 50C when the air temperature is 30C.
It said speed restrictions may be introduced in some areas this week to minimise the risk.
Vehicle breakdown rescue companies are also likely to be busier than usual because of the high temperatures.
Drivers are advised to carry plenty of water and conduct essential vehicle checks before setting off, particularly tyre pressures and their levels of coolant and oil.
Tony Rich, a spokesman for the AA on road safety, said: “With temperatures expected to climb into the low 30s across parts of England over the coming days, drivers should take the heat as seriously as they would ice or heavy rain.
“A few simple checks before setting off can make all the difference. Make sure your tyres are correctly inflated, check your coolant level and carry plenty of drinking water for everyone in the vehicle, including pets.
“If you’re planning a longer journey, build in regular breaks and try to avoid the hottest part of the day where possible.
“Should you break down, get yourself and your passengers to a place of safety, ideally behind the safety barrier if there is one, and keep hydrated while waiting for assistance.”
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