Swathes of England are in drought after weeks without rain and scorching temperatures, the Environment Agency announced, as temperatures reached 35.2C on Thursday – the seventh day of the year when 35C or higher was recorded in the UK.
The government body has declared an official drought in around half the country – East Anglia, Hertfordshire and the whole of London, Thames Valley, Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, Devon and Cornwall, the West Midlands, and Wessex – covering Dorset, Somerset, Wiltshire and Gloucestershire.
July is set to be the driest month on record, after England had just 7 per cent of expected rainfall.
Amber and yellow heat alerts are in force across England after the UK Health Security Agency warned rising temperatures would increase health risks, particularly for vulnerable people.
Forecasters warn parts of the South and southeast England could suffer “exceptionally severe” wildfires this week, after an exceptionally dry June in the most parched regions.
Fire services in England and Wales have responded to 706 wildfires so far this year. Of those, 208 were recorded in the past two weeks, the National Fire Chiefs Council says.
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Key Points
- Half of England officially in drought, Environment Agency announces
- Amber and yellow heat health alerts coming into force
- UK prepares for wildfires like those in France and Spain
- Parts of the UK have gone without rain for 40 days ahead of fourth heatwave
- Weather forecast in full for Wednesday to Saturday
- 'Devastating' wildfires are 'stark reminder' of extreme climate challenges, Prince of Wales says
Mapped: How hot will temperatures be tomorrow?
20:00 , Bryony GoochTemperatures will drop slightly tomorrow from the peaks of mid-thirties seen on Wednesday.
The capital will see highs of 27C, with home counties, the east Midlands and the east of England also seeing temperatures in the mid to late twenties.
The maps and charts that show the huge impact of Britain’s record-breaking summer
19:00 , Bryony Gooch
The charts that show the huge impact of Britain’s record-breaking summer
Pictured: Gardens in Fulham remain parched as hosepipe ban continues
18:00 , Bryony Gooch
Watch: Blackheath's parched grass ahead of England's fourth heatwave
17:00 , Bryony GoochCairngorms wildfire 'a significant and challenging incident', fire chief says
16:13 , Bryony GoochThomas Mortimer, a wildfire tactical adviser who has been on the ground fighting the Cairngorms wildfire, described the ongoing efforts while driving along a firebreak on Wednesday.
Heading towards the Ryvoan bothy where the blaze started, Mr Mortimer said it had jumped across the firebreak at one point, leaving a small section of ground on the left side of the track charred.
Crews on site managed to stop it spreading with the help of helicopter support.
Mr Mortimer said: “We’ve had large-scale wildfires in Scotland in the past. This has certainly been a significant and challenging incident for us.
“However, it’s been really pleasing to see how hard everybody’s worked to bring it to the stage we’re at now and also the support of the local community in enabling us and our partners to do that.”
“From what I’ve witnessed, I’ve seen firefighters who are still really motivated to see the incident through and bring it to a safe conclusion, and I think morale has certainly been boosted and encouraged by the support of the local community.”
Water security should be a priority, WaterAid says
16:00 , Bryony GoochWaterAid has said as the England experiences drought, the government should look to make sure water security is a global priority.
Senior climate advocacy advisor, Julie Henri, said: "When temperatures soar, the value of water becomes impossible to ignore - as our grass turns brown and our rivers and reservoirs run low.
"Yet having too much, or too little water has been the climate reality for many of the world's poorest countries, facing the greatest risks while having the fewest resources to adapt. That's why we champion solutions like solar-powered water systems which keep water flowing during drought in Zambia, or rainwater harvesting systems that are critical to water supplies in South Asia.
"Everyone, everywhere needs water, and we urge the new foreign secretary to elevate water security as a priority - through his new World Bank position and the UK's upcoming G20 leadership - to keep communities and livelihoods safe.”
Access restricted around Cairngorms National Park as wildfire rages on after two weeks
15:52 , Bryony GoochOnly firefighters and excavators are allowed at Glenmore Lodge and the road leading up to the Green Loch and Ryvoan bothy, which would normally be busy with walkers and holiday makers in the Cairngorms National Park.
The walking track towards Green Loch has been dug out and excavated to form a fire break.
On one side, the ground and tree trunks are scorched and blackened, while on the other side, the heather and green grassland looked nearly normal.
The slopes above the loch and opposite the bothy are the most visibly altered from the fire.
Thomas Mortimer, a wildfire tactical adviser who has been on the ground fighting the Cairngorms fire, said it is more challenging to fight a fire on a slope because it tends to spread more easily.
He said the firebreaks have largely worked as intended and contained the fire as much as possible.
A couple of hotspots continue to smoke and smoulder in the distance and the air smelled strongly of smoke.
Helicopters still passed overheard with loads of water for the frontline.
In pictures: Blackheath covered in dry grass due to drought
15:45 , Bryony Gooch
Drought chief warns of long-term effects on environment, wildlife and economy
15:30 , Jane DaltonHelen Wakeham, director of water at the Environment Agency and chairwoman of the National Drought Group, said: “The hot and dry weather means we are currently using water faster than nature can replenish it.
“A second consecutive summer drought is an exceptionally serious situation and one that will have long-lasting impacts on our environment, wildlife and the economy.
“We want everyone to stay safe and hydrated during the hot weather but every drop we can save is a drop more for nature and agriculture.”
In pictures: Parched grassland at Richmond Park, London
15:15 , Jane Dalton
Third of England in 'prolonged dry status'
15:00 , Jane DaltonAlmost a third of England – including parts of the South East, Midlands and North West – is in “prolonged dry status”, with only the northeast and Yorkshire still having “normal” conditions for the time of year.
It is the second year in a row with parts of the country suffering from drought, despite winter rainfall replenishing reservoirs and groundwater and helping the country through a dry spring without major impacts, the Environment Agency said.
There have been three droughts in the past five years, in 2022, 2025 and 2026.
Drought declared for half of England: Find out if your area is affected
14:46 , Jane Dalton
Drought declared for half of England – find out if your area is affected
July set to be driest month on record
14:30 , Bryony GoochJuly is set to be the driest month on record, with England having just seven per cent of expected rainfall, and southern England seeing just one per cent.
As a result, much of the country is experiencing a flash drought – one which has come on quickly despite a very wet winter.
The announcement was made as parts of the UK experience their fourth heatwave of the summer, with temperatures reaching into the 30s in some places.
There were record-breaking heatwaves in May and June, and a third earlier this month, which have hit agriculture, rivers and the natural environment, prompted widespread wildfires and led to hosepipe bans for millions of people.
In pictures: People on boats in the Thames as heatwave continues
14:15 , Bryony Gooch
Watch: Can you actually cook an egg on the pavement?
13:55 , Bryony GoochLittle sign of rainfall needed to support areas most affected by drought, says Met Office
13:40 , Bryony GoochThe Met Office has warned there is little sign the dry weather abating as no significant rainfall is forecast in the near future for areas most affected by drought.
Met Office chief meteorologist, Will Lang, said: “The warm and exceptionally dry conditions experienced across much of England over recent months are continuing to have a significant impact. Many areas have received very little or no rainfall throughout July, extending a period of below-average rainfall that has persisted across parts of the country since spring.
"While there are indications of occasional unsettled spells during the first part of August, bringing the chance of rain to some locations, there is currently little sign of the widespread, sustained rainfall that would be needed to make a significant difference to the areas most affected by the dry weather.
"The Met Office continues to work closely with the Environment Agency and partners across the water sector, providing expert meteorological information and forecasts to support drought monitoring, planning and response activities."
Water companies must go further and faster to reduce leaks, minister says
13:25 , Bryony GoochThe government’s water minister has called on water companies to reduce leaks and follow their drought plans as half of England experiences a drought.
Emma Hardy said: “Our climate is changing, droughts are becoming increasingly common, and we need to be prepared for this new normal.
“We’re delivering long-term change in the water industry and driving record investments in infrastructure, including nine new reservoirs.
“We expect water companies to follow their drought plans, to go further and faster to reduce leaks, and to ensure supplies are not disrupted even in the driest of weather.”
Environment Agency boss warns that every drop of water needs saving amid drought
13:10 , Bryony GoochThe director of water at the environment agency has warned that water needs saving as half of England has been declared as experiencing a drought.
Helen Wakeham, also chair of the National Drought Group, said: “The hot and dry weather means we are currently using water faster than nature can replenish it.
“A second consecutive summer drought is an exceptionally serious situation and one that will have long-lasting impacts on our environment, wildlife, and the economy.
“We want everyone to stay safe and hydrated during the hot weather but every drop we can save is a drop more for nature and agriculture.”
Mapped: Where has drought been declared in England?
13:00 , Bryony GoochUK heatwave map: Where temperatures are set to hit 34C today in ‘North-South split’
12:50 , Bryony GoochParts of southern England are set to bask in a fourth heatwave this week, with temperatures set to reach highs of 34C.
On Wednesday, temperatures are set to reach 33C in London and surrounding counties, with highs of 25 degrees recorded in Manchester and 26 degrees in Cardiff. The heat is expected to peak at 34C in the afternoon across parts of Essex, and Cambridgeshire.
Read more here:
UK heatwave map: Where temperatures are set to hit 34C today in ‘North-South split’
Met Office marks new June record temperature of 38C - higher than provisional reports
12:27 , Bryony GoochA new UK and England June daily temperature record of 38C has been verified by the Met Office’s site weather assessment team, higher than the 37.7C figure previously reported.
The new figure set on 26 June 2026, comes from the same station – Lingwood - as the previously reported provisional record.
In pictures: People carry umbrellas for shade in the sunny capital
12:20 , Bryony Gooch
Breaking: Half of England are officially in drought, the Environment Agency announces
12:12 , Bryony GoochSeven areas of central, eastern and southern England are now officially in drought following record low rain and high temperatures, the Environment Agency has said.
The seven areas are:
- East Anglia
- Hertfordshire
- London
- Thames Valley
- Hampshire & the Isle of Wight
- Devon & Cornwall
- The West Midlands
- Wessex (Dorset, Somerset, Wiltshire, and south Gloucestershire)
Watch: The Met Office's latest forecast
12:00 , Bryony GoochHow hot London could get in fourth heatwave of summer
11:41 , Bryony GoochTemperatures in London are set to soar to as high as 35C this week as the country braces for its fourth heatwave of the summer.
The capital is expected to see bright sunshine and sweltering highs from Tuesday, with the forecast showing expected highs of a sizzling 29C.
Wednesday will see temperatures reaching their peak of well over 30C, according to the Met Office, before they begin to slowly fall to around 27C on Thursday.
Read more here:
How hot London could get in fourth heatwave of summer
Greggs sales soar as iced drinks and salads prove a heatwave hit
11:19 , Bryony GoochGreggs has reported a significant surge in sales and profits, attributing its robust performance to an expanded range of iced drinks and salads that proved particularly popular during this summer’s heatwaves and attracted a growing number of health-conscious consumers.
The bakery giant announced total sales reaching £1.1 billion for the 26 weeks to 27 June, marking a 7.2 per cent increase compared to the same period last year.
Innovation across its menu, designed to align with evolving consumer food trends, has been a key driver in attracting new customers. This includes popular items such as iced matcha lattes and the chicken roll, introduced in April as an alternative to its well-known sausage and vegan rolls.
Greggs has also broadened its salad offerings with new and reformulated recipes, focusing on higher protein content and clearer nutritional labelling to appeal to health-aware shoppers.
Watch: Blackheath's parched grass ahead of England's fourth heatwave
11:01 , Bryony GoochPictured: Firefighters tackle blaze in Devil's Dyke, Sussex
10:37 , Bryony Gooch
NFCC warns UK wildfires getting larger and more complex as climate change worsens
10:18 , Bryony GoochThe NFCC said UK wildfires are typically smaller and different in nature to those seen in southern Europe, adding, however, that the “long-term effects of climate change are increasing the likelihood of larger, more complex and more resource-intensive wildfire incidents occurring”.
Phil Garrigan, chairman of the NFCC, said: “More than 200 wildfires in just 12 days shows how quickly the risk can escalate when hot, dry conditions take hold.
“The scenes we’re seeing across parts of Europe are a stark reminder of what a changing climate means for fire and rescue services.
“We are not seeing fires of that scale in the UK today, but the science tells us we should expect larger, more frequent and more complex wildfires in the future.
“That’s why we need continued investment in specialist wildfire capabilities, including aerial firefighting support, so we’re prepared for the risks ahead.
“But prevention remains our strongest defence. Most wildfires are avoidable, and we’re asking everyone to take extra care during the hot weather to help keep their communities safe.”
Charity warns asthma attacks more likely amid heatwave
10:00 , Bryony GoochAsthma + Lung UK has warned those living with lung conditions that life-threatening asthma attacks are more common during the hot weather.
Emma Rubach, Head of Health Advice at Asthma + Lung UK, said: “As heatwaves become increasingly common in the UK, the 12 million people living with lung conditions face a growing risk to their health.
“Hot weather can affect breathing and make symptoms like breathlessness and wheezing worse for people with asthma, COPD and other lung conditions. Heat also increases air pollution levels, putting people at greater risk of a flare-up or life-threatening asthma attack.
“The heatwaves earlier this year claimed thousands of lives, making it vital that we all take steps to protect our health. If you have asthma or another lung condition, try to stay out of the heat during the hottest part of the day, and keep your home as cool as possible by closing blinds and windows exposed to direct sunlight. Importantly, be sure to take your preventer inhaler as prescribed and always keep your reliever inhaler with you to treat symptoms quickly.”
Don’t sit under trees in heatwave, park visitors warned
09:40 , Bryony GoochAs the high temperatures have shown no sign of abating, staff at Normanby Hall Country Park in Lincolnshire have warned visitors that there is an increased risk of branches dropping suddenly as trees weaken in the heat.
While people may be used to enjoying the shade provided by trees, a parks and gardens officer at the 300-acre estate has warned the trees are under such stress that branches could shed without any warning.
Read more here:
Don’t sit under trees in heatwave, park visitors told ahead of 33C heat
Recap: Tube temperatures near 40C as commuters brave heatwave
09:18 , Bryony GoochWildfire watch: Inside the frantic battle to save France from the flames
09:06 , Bryony GoochWhile experts have warned that wildfires in Britain could be “exceptionally severe”, France and Spain are already battling off blazes caused by the extreme heat and dry conditions.
The Independent’s senior international reporter James C. Reynolds witnesses the scale of the devastation in Gironde first hand, and speaks to the community that has come together to tackle the crisis.
Inside battle to save France from flames as most severe wildfires on record spread
Amber and yellow heat health alerts coming into force
08:39 , Bryony GoochA number of amber and yellow heat health alerts are coming into force from 9am on Wednesday as the most extreme heat is expected this afternoon.
Yorkshire and The Humber, the west Midlands and the south west of England are all under yellow alerts. Meanwhile the east Midlands, east of England, London and the south east are all under amber heat health alerts.
UKHSA experts have warned that there will be an increased risk of life to vulnerable people with a potential rise in deaths among the elderly in areas under amber alerts.
With an increased potential for indoor environments to become warm, the agency warned that care settings may exceed the recommended threshold for clinical risk assessment in areas particularly affected by the heat.
There could also be an increased incidence of water-related issues, including risks from cold‑water shock and drowning.
The alerts will end at 9am on Thursday.
Mapped: Where will be the hottest today?
08:18 , Bryony GoochTemperatures are expected to peak in Chelmsford, Essex, at 34C today in what is expected to be the peak of the heatwave around 4pm.
Wildlife centres ‘fit to bursting’ with hedgehogs amid scorching weather
07:55 , Holly EvansAnimal rescue centres are “fit to bursting” with hedgehogs and foxes suffering from heatstroke during one of the hottest summers on record, the RSPCA said.
Gardeners are being urged to create shaded spaces for wildlife struggling to keep cool during the scorching weather as the fourth heatwave of the year looms.
The animal welfare charity said two baby hedgehogs were found “in distress” in a back garden in Somerset and brought into the nearby West Hatch Wildlife Centre, where they are being cared for along with “several other recent admissions” due to the heat.
Record-breaking temperatures were recorded in both May and June, and July has been 3C above average across the UK, according to provisional Met Office data on the month so far.
Recent research from veterinary group Inspiring Vet Care found that in June this year its clinics treated 179 cases of suspected heatstroke – 66 per cent higher than the 108 cases treated in the same month two years prior.
Some 316 hedgehogs were admitted to the RSPCA’s four wildlife centres in June, a 56 per cent rise on the 202 admitted in the same month the previous year.
London park staff advised not to leave deck chairs under trees
07:40 , Holly EvansImages showed widespread brown grass across Blackheath in London, with parched dry grass present in many parks in the capital following the hot weather.
It comes as Royal Parks staff were advised not to leave deckchairs under trees over fears branches will fall during hot weather.
Fire chiefs said many wildfires are caused by everyday human activity, adding that “disposing of cigarettes safely, avoiding the use of disposable barbecues in open spaces and taking litter home can significantly reduce the risk of fires starting”.
Fires could be exceptionally severe as temperatures rise to 34C
07:21 , Holly EvansA Met Office assessment showed fires could be exceptionally severe by Wednesday if they start in parts of London, the South East and eastern England, as a result of the hot, dry conditions.
Fire and rescue services in England and Wales have responded to 706 wildfires so far in 2026, with 208 incidents recorded between July 16 and 28 alone, the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) said.
It added that the latest figures, which do not account for wildfires across the rest of the UK such as a major wildfire in the Cairngorms in Scotland, show “how quickly wildfire activity can increase during prolonged periods of hot and dry weather”.
Fire chiefs warned that wildfire risk “remains elevated across the UK”, with the NFCC adding there were “currently eight live wildfire incidents being monitored through national reporting systems”.
Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service said firefighters were continuing to “make progress at the major wildfire incident at Tintwistle Moor” after 60 personnel were deployed on Tuesday.
While wildfire numbers in England and Wales remain below the 788 recorded by the same point last year, fire chiefs warned “continued dry conditions, combined with warmer temperatures and harvesting activity in many rural areas”, were creating conditions in which fires can start and spread rapidly.
Waitrose sees surprise spike in these dishes as heatwaves bring ‘feta fatigue’
07:00 , Joe MiddletonSupermarket giant Waitrose has reported a surprise increase in certain meals during the heatwaves scorching the UK.
Sizzling temperatures may make you think of leafy salads and sunripe fresh vegetables, - but somewhat surprisingly, sales of winter comfort foods, such as cottage pies, gratins and red wine are on the rise.
The grocer said sales of cottage pies were up 110 per cent while chicken and ham gratin and South African red wine were both up 68 per cent over the last month.
Meanwhile, recipe searches on Waitrose.com for spaghetti bolognese, toad in the hole and mac ‘n’ cheese were up 91 per cent, 67 per cent and 57 per cent respectively.
Waitrose sees surprise spike in winter dishes despite heatwave
Parts of the UK have gone without rain for 40 days ahead of fourth heatwave
06:00 , Joe MiddletonThe UK’s most parched regions have gone without rain for weeks, Met Office data has revealed.
Wisley, in Surrey, has had 40 consecutive “dry days”, in which no or only a trace of rain has been recorded, while Herstmonceux, West End, in East Sussex has had 37 dry days.
A number of other sites including Heathrow in London and spots in Worcestershire, Suffolk, Norfolk, Cambridgeshire, Bedfordshire and Lincolnshire have all recorded more than 30 consecutive dry days.
You can read more below:
Parts of the UK have gone without rain for 40 days ahead of fourth heatwave
'Devastating' wildfires are 'stark reminder' of extreme climate challenges, Prince of Wales says
05:00 , Joe MiddletonThe Prince of Wales said “devastating” wildfires across Europe are a “stark reminder of the challenges posed by an increasingly extreme climate”.
Fire crews and planes are currently attempting to bring a huge wildfire under control in south-west France, with fires also burning out of control around Madrid and in the Valencia region of Spain.
The UK Government has also offered military support to tackle the Cairngorms wildfire in Scotland.
In a personally signed message on social media, William wrote: “Our thoughts are with everyone affected by the devastating wildfires across France, Spain and the UK.
“We are deeply grateful to the firefighters, emergency services and volunteers working tirelessly in extraordinarily difficult conditions.
“These events are a stark reminder of the challenges posed by an increasingly extreme climate and the importance of protecting both people and nature.”
UK preparing for wildfires similar to those that have torn through France and Spain, minister confirms
04:00 , Joe MiddletonThe government is preparing for wildfires in the UK similar to those that have torn through France and Spain this summer, a minister has confirmed.
Blazes have wrought destruction in mainland Europe this week, with 220,000 forced out of their homes in southwest France and 116,000 evacuated in Spain.
Asked whether the UK is preparing for similar events, minister for intergovernmental relations Hamish Falconer, told Sky News: “Obviously there are wildfires in Scotland as well, and we’re in touch with the Scottish government about what support the British government can provide.
“But yes, we are preparing, and we know that we need to go further. These are incredibly concerning scenes around Bordeaux and in Spain.
“I think the Spanish government have been pretty clear that they think that the increasing ferocity of the wildfires that they face are a result of man-made climate change, and we do need to take those warnings very seriously indeed.”
You can read more below:
UK preparing for wildfires similar to France and Spain, minister says
Weather forecast in full for Wednesday to Saturday
03:00 , Joe MiddletonWednesday
Rather cloudy across the North, with outbreaks of rain sinking southwards into northern England during the afternoon. Dry and sunny across the South, where it will feel hot and humid.
Thursday to Saturday
Thursday will be fresher with sunshine and perhaps the odd shower. Mostly dry on Friday and Saturday with further sunshine developing at times. Still warm in the sunshine.
Waitrose sees surprise spike in these dishes as heatwaves bring ‘feta fatigue’
02:00 , Nicole Wootton-CaneSupermarket giant Waitrose has reported a surprise increase in certain meals during the heatwaves scorching the UK.
Sizzling temperatures may make you think of leafy salads and sunripe fresh vegetables, - but somewhat surprisingly, sales of winter comfort foods, such as cottage pies, gratins and red wine are on the rise.
The grocer said sales of cottage pies were up 110 per cent while chicken and ham gratin and South African red wine were both up 68 per cent over the last month.
Meanwhile, recipe searches on Waitrose.com for spaghetti bolognese, toad in the hole and mac ‘n’ cheese were up 91 per cent, 67 per cent and 57 per cent respectively.
Waitrose sees surprise spike in winter dishes despite heatwave
Fire chiefs 'preparing for renewed wildfire risk'
01:00 , Nicole Wootton-CaneFire chiefs are preparing for the possibility of “severe” wildfires breaking out in England during the heatwave.
A National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) spokesperson said: “With the Met Office warning that a fourth heatwave could develop this week, bringing another period of very hot weather to parts of the UK, fire and rescue services remain on alert and are continuing to prepare for renewed wildfire risk.”
Dramatic satellite images show devastating impact of UK’s record-breaking heatwaves
Wednesday 29 July 2026 00:00 , Nicole Wootton-CaneThe UK has experienced record-breaking temperatures this summer, with a severe dry spell and sweltering weather turning the nation’s green landscape brown and dry.
Last month was England’s hottest June on record, the Met Office has confirmed, hitting 37.7C in Lingwood, Norfolk on the 26th. This surpassed the 35.6C set in 1957 and equalled the 1976 record.
Sweltering temperatures have continued into July, with 2026 marking the first time that temperatures have reached 35C in May, June and July in the same year.
Many parts of England are now at risk of drought due to prolonged hot and dry conditions, with land and rivers drying up across southern and eastern England.
Satellite images reveal the impact these conditions have had on the natural environment, with extensive browning of green spaces and farmland due to high evaporation and low rainfall.
You can see the images below:
Dramatic satellite images show devastating impact of UK’s record-breaking heatwaves
Watch: 'Come work with us fighting the fire' - Firefighter's message to climate deniers
Tuesday 28 July 2026 23:00 , Nicole Wootton-CaneIn focus: The bees are dying – and nine other ways hotter weather is changing the British countryside forever
Tuesday 28 July 2026 22:00 , Nicole Wootton-CaneAs new research shows that UK bumblebees are in sharp decline as a result of summer heatwaves, Helen Coffey says there are a number of other changes coming too. So what will the new normal look like?
From dying bumblebees to wasp spiders: How heatwaves are changing the countryside
Everything you need to know as South of England set to enter fourth summer heatwave
Tuesday 28 July 2026 21:00 , Nicole Wootton-Cane• The South of England is expected to enter its fourth summer heatwave this week as forecasters warned temperatures could soar to at least 34C.
• Southern and Eastern parts of England could experience “exceptionally severe” wildfires if they break out by Wednesday due to hot and dry conditions, the Met Office said.
• The government is preparing for wildfires in the UK similar to those that have torn through France and Spain this summer, a minister has confirmed.
• A number of amber and yellow heat health alerts are in place, with health chiefs saying vulnerable groups are particularly likely to be affected by the heatwave.
• London Fire Brigade said it had attended more than 1,300 incidents, including grass fires and a person rescued from the Thames, over the weekend as the hot weather continued.
• It comes after England’s hottest June on record.
Your views: Readers say Britain’s food shortages were man-made long before this drought
Tuesday 28 July 2026 20:00 , Nicole Wootton-Cane
‘Scientists raised the alarm’: Readers say Britain’s food crisis is man-made
Wildlife centres ‘fit to bursting’ with hedgehogs amid scorching weather
Tuesday 28 July 2026 19:00 , Nicole Wootton-CaneAnimal rescue centres are “fit to bursting” with hedgehogs and foxes suffering from heatstroke during one of the hottest summers on record, the RSPCA said.
Gardeners are being urged to create shaded spaces for wildlife struggling to keep cool during the scorching weather as the fourth heatwave of the year looms.
Recent research from veterinary group Inspiring Vet Care found that in June this year its clinics treated 179 cases of suspected heatstroke – 66 per cent higher than the 108 cases treated in the same month two years prior.
Some 316 hedgehogs were admitted to the RSPCA’s four wildlife centres in June, a 56 per cent rise on the 202 admitted in the same month the previous year.
Amy Ockelford, a senior press officer at the RSPCA, told the Press Association that wildlife centres are operating at “maximum capacity” and are “fit to bursting”, and have seen an increase in admissions of hoglets and hedgehogs.
She said: “These animals are usually not out in the daytime, but they’re coming out because they’re struggling to find food and water, and ending up with heatstroke.”
The RSPCA employee encouraged people to think about wildlife as well as pets, adding: “Keep out clean, cool water for wildlife and try and create shaded areas where you can for them to avoid the direct sun.”
The eight UK areas at risk of drought after record-breaking heatwaves
Tuesday 28 July 2026 18:00 , Nicole Wootton-CaneParts of England are at risk of drought after record-breaking heatwaves have left a number of rivers and reservoirs “exceptionally low”.
The country is moving into its fourth heatwave this summer following the driest spring on record for England and Wales, with southern and eastern England having no rain at all this month.
Environment experts say the prolonged hot and dry conditions have dried up land, rivers, and streams, while demand for water has soared during the hottest days, warning that eight areas are now at risk of a drought.
You can find out which areas are at most risk below:
Mapped: The eight UK areas at risk of drought after record-breaking heatwaves
From June's heatwave: I’m a disaster responder and this week’s heatwave has exposed just how broken Britain really is
Tuesday 28 July 2026 17:00 , Nicole Wootton-CaneSchools closing, hospitals declaring critical incidents and chaos on the roads and railways – as our creaking infrastructure melts under the pressure of extreme heat, government advisor, Lucy Easthope, explains why the wreckage of this week tells her we’ve left it too late to cope with what is coming next.
The hottest June on record shows Britain is broken and in denial about what’s coming
Weather forecast in full for Tuesday to Saturday
Tuesday 28 July 2026 16:30 , Nicole Wootton-CaneTuesday
Outbreaks of rain continue across northern areas, with some heavy bursts possible in Northern Ireland and western Scotland. Elsewhere, it stays dry with sunny spells. The sunniest conditions are expected in the South, where it will feel hot and humid.
Tuesday night
Cloudy across the North West, with a chance of rain. Dry across much of England and Wales with clear spells, and a few isolated mist and fog patches. Another warm night.
Wednesday
Rather cloudy across the North, with outbreaks of rain sinking southwards into northern England during the afternoon. Dry and sunny across the South, where it will feel hot and humid.
Thursday to Saturday
Thursday will be fresher with sunshine and perhaps the odd shower. Mostly dry on Friday and Saturday with further sunshine developing at times. Still warm in the sunshine.
