The rare red weather warning for extreme heat has been extended in London and the South East, as the Met Office expects the “exceptional spell of hot and humid weather” to continue until Friday night.
Hundreds of thousands of people have come under a hosepipe ban in Kent as the extreme heatwave drives record demand for water.
South East Water is urging its 850,000 customers in the county to immediately follow the restrictions, which will be enforced from 3 July.
Chief executive officer, David Hinton, said it had to prioritise essential needs and protect vulnerable people.
"To safeguard that shared supply and prevent any homes from facing a sudden loss of water, we sadly need to ask our communities to not use their hosepipes immediately,” he added.
It follows the hottest June night on record in the UK after overnight temperatures in Cardiff failed to drop below 23.5C.
At least 10 motorists were taken to the hospital after being stranded in the extreme heat on the M25 during the hottest June day ever.
Train passengers have been told to only travel if necessary, as commuters face significant travel delays and cancellations amid the red weather warning.
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Read MoreWhen will the UK heatwave end? Met Office issues forecast for 15C drop in temperature
Full list of schools closing or shutting early as heatwave scorches
Mapped: Is there a hosepipe ban in my area and what restrictions are in place?
Tube temperatures near 40C as commuters brave heatwave: ‘It’s hotter than South Africa’
Health warning issued as more than 1 million children in UK living in overheated homes
Key Points
- Red weather warning extended to Friday in capital and southeast
- Hosepipe ban in Kent amid 'exceptionally high' water demand
- Heatwave continues to cause travel chaos
- More than 10 people taken to hospital after being stranded on M25 in extreme heat
- Met Office forecast for the next four days
Toddler dies in hot car after becoming trapped while mother slept in 40C heatwave
13:27 , Harriette BoucherAlex Croft reports:
A three year-old boy has died after becoming trapped in a car in Paris as France recorded the hottest day in its history.
The toddler slipped into the family car while his father thought he was sleeping but was unable to get out due to the child lock, public prosecutor Guirec Le Bras said.
The child’s mother was having a nap with the couple’s 18-month-old other child while the father worked in the garden shed, the prosecutor told French media.
“He apparently shut himself in and became trapped in the vehicle before being found unconscious by his parents,” the prosecutor said, adding that the mother is in hospital in a state of shock.
More follows on this breaking news story...
Toddler dies in hot car after becoming trapped in vehicle while mother slept
UK theme parks, zoos and museums among attractions closed due to extreme heat
13:20 , Harriette BoucherNatalie Wilson writes:
Top tourist attractions across the UK are closing their doors until Friday as Brits brace for record-breaking temperatures up to 40C.
With hundreds of schools in England and Wales being forced to send children home this week, here are the UK attractions that have closed or adjusted their opening hours during the scorching temperatures:
UK theme parks, zoos and museums among attractions closed due to extreme heat
Heatwave to 'maintain its grip on the UK for a little longer'
13:12 , Harriette BoucherThe Met Office’s chief meteorologist said parts of the UK will still experience the intense heatwave “for a little longer.”
A red warning for extreme heat in London and parts of south eastern England has been extended until 9pm on Friday.
Andy Page said: “This exceptional spell of hot and humid weather will maintain its grip on the UK for a little longer.
“Although the current red warning for areas in more central and western parts of England and Wales will expire later today, the heatwave will still be bringing high temperatures to these areas, albeit moving away from the peak heat of Wednesday and Thursday.
“We are expecting that some daytime maximum temperatures could exceed 36C, perhaps rising to 37C in some locations.”
There will also be high humidity, which would lead to uncomfortably warm, humid nights, the Met Office said.
“Significant disruption to daily life is likely and the public should take every effort to adapt their daily routines to cope with these levels of heat, which up to now have been extremely rare for the UK,” Mr Page said.
As the heatwave eases, the Met Office said the east and southeast of England will retain the warmth the longest, although there should be a climbdown in temperatures by Saturday, with peaks around 32C likely.
Next week, a more westerly influence on the UK’s weather is expected, with a return to more average temperatures for the time of year and a mixture of winds and rain, particularly in the northwest, the weather service said.
Heatstroke symptoms: Key signs to look out for amid red weather warning
13:00 , Harriette BoucherHosepipe ban map: Is my area under restrictions during UK heatwave?
12:43 , Harriette Boucher
Hosepipe ban map: Is my area under restrictions during record UK heatwave?
Cobra meeting held to respond to extreme heatwave
12:25 , Millie CookeDowning Street confirmed that ministers held a Cobra meeting on Tuesday to respond to the extreme heatwave unfolding across the UK, urging people to "pay close attention" to guidance issued by the UK Health Security Agency.
As temperatures look set to top 35C again, the prime minister's official spokesperson said: "We're working across government and devolved and local partners to respond to the severe heat wave.
"As part of this response, we held an official level Cobra on Tuesday morning, and will continue to monitor the situation closely.
"As well as clearly being uncomfortable, the red weather alerts indicate that the heat poses a risk to life, and that's why we urge people to pay close attention to guidance issued by the UK Health Security Agency, other public health bodies and organisations, such as transport operators."
Downing Street rejects calls for maximum workplace temperatures
12:16 , Millie CookeDowning Street has once again shot down calls for a legal maximum workplace temperature, but insisted that employers "should take practical steps to keep workers safe".
Asked whether this was something they were considering amid soaring temperatures, the prime minister's official spokesperson said: "We have no plans to introduce a maximum workplace temperature. We are clear that employers should take practical steps to keep workers safe... and the Health and Safety Executive has shared guidance for employers to plan for and support those working in extreme heat.
"Practical steps can include providing adequate ventilation and shade, and allowing enough breaks for workers to cool down."
Starmer: Schools have to decide for themselves if they should close
12:12 , Harriette BoucherSir Keir Starmer said schools have to decide for themselves whether it is right to close early as a result of the heatwave.
Asked if it was right that children’s education suffer because of the extreme weather, the prime minister said: “It is very hot, and obviously schools will have to take the appropriate measures, and each school will gage for themselves the measures that are appropriate.
“But it is important that we as a government co-ordinate this across the country, and actually with all of the countries within the United Kingdom, which is what we’re doing.”
Cobra meetings are taking place “at the official level”, Sir Keir said, adding: “Obviously it falls to me and others to say, take care, be sensible with precautions, and schools are going to have to decide. They are deciding.”
Education secretary Bridget Phillipson said earlier that the government was encouraging schools to stay open “as a priority”.
Thousands of schools are sending children home early this week or closing all together amid the record high temperatures.
Why leaving a dog in a hot car for one minute is too long – and what to do if you spot one
11:52 , Harriette BoucherNicole Wootton-Cane reports:
Animal welfare experts have made a plea to dog owners not to leave their pets inside hot vehicles during the heatwave, saying cars can be a “death trap” for canines.
The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) said anyone who sees a distressed dog in a car should call the police to report it.
Lauren Bennett, animal welfare expert at the RSPCA, said: “The RSPCA does not have the legal power to enter a vehicle to rescue an animal in distress - only the police have the power to do this.
“So please, if you see a dog or any other animal inside a hot car, call 999 immediately - every second really does count in this situation and it’s vital to get the animal out of that environment and safely cooled down as soon as possible.”
Read more:
What to do if you see a distressed dog in a car during a heatwave
In pictures: Blackpool Zoo animals cool off with sprat and fruit ice lollies
11:43 , Harriette Boucher
Temperatures of Central London pavements climb close to 60C
11:32 , Harriette BoucherPavements, rail platforms, building sites and playgrounds across London reached temperatures nearing 60C on Wednesday.
As the capital suffered through record-high temperatures, surfaces in Piccadilly Circus and Oxford Circus reached 56C, while Regent Street hit 57C, according to thermal camera images captured for Greenpeace UK.
The overground platform at Highbury & Islington had a surface temperature of 62C and the granite paving stones in King’s Cross Square reached 54C.
Greenpeace UK head of climate Mel Evans said: “This record-smashing heatwave has turned London into a sticky, sizzling cauldron. This isn’t just weather – it’s a public health emergency driven by fossil fuel giants and their planet-heating emissions.
“These abnormal temperatures are stretching homes, schools, transport and our own health to breaking point, and yet the government has been caught off guard.
“Ministers need to stop winging it and deliver a proper extreme heat plan, with cooler homes and schools, safe limits for workers, more shade and green space, and clear protection for the most vulnerable. But adaptation alone won’t be enough.
“Political leaders must also stop fossil fuel companies from turning up the heat on our planet – and make them pay their fair share to fix the problem they’ve caused.”
Red weather warning extended until Friday in capital and southeast
11:11 , Harriette BoucherThe red weather warning for extreme heat has been extended until Friday night.
Parts of London and South East of England, as well as the East of England, will stay under the warning until 9pm tomorrow.
The Met Office said “the exceptional spell of hot and humid weather will continue across this region, with impacts to the general population highly likely.
“The heatwave which is affecting a large part of England and Wales is set to continue during Friday. The focus of the highest temperatures on Friday is likely to shift towards east and southeastern England, where maximum temperatures in the shade could exceed 36 Celsius, perhaps rising to 38 Celsius in some places.
“However, following another very warm night, the greatest likelihood of high impacts are expected to be within this Red warning area during Friday.”
The weather agency said significant disruption to daily life can again be expected on Friday.
Series of thunderstorm warnings issued with heavy rain and lightning on way
11:02 , Harriette BoucherMultiple weather warnings for thunderstorms have been issued ahead of the heavy rain and frequent hail set to hit the UK.
A thunderstorm warning comes into force at 3pm on Thursday for Grampian, Highlands & Eilean Siar, Orkney and Shetland, and Strathclyde.
The warning will be extended to include all of Scotland on Friday, when a thunderstorm warning also comes into force for most of England and Wales.
Friday’s weather warning will cover the East Midlands, London & South East England, North East England, North West England, South West England, Wales, West Midlands, and Yorkshire & Humber until 10am.
The Met Office said: “Many areas missing the worst, but thunderstorms could bring disruption in places during Thursday night and into Friday morning.”
It warned there was a chance of power cuts, flooding and travel disruption with winds reaching 60 mph possible.
Where will get the hottest today?
10:44 , Harriette BoucherToday’s temperatures are forecast to reach 37C in parts of the UK today, exceeding yesterday’s hottest June day ever recorded.
The southwest of England will experience the warmest weather, with areas in Hampshire and Wiltshire expecting to see highs in the late thirties.
London is forecast to reach 32C, slightly cooler than the 35.8C recorded in the capital yesterday.
Wales is set for another scorching day, with highs of 35C expected widely.
Northern parts of Scotland won’t see temperatures climb above 20C, but southern parts could experience highs of 30C by the late afternoon.
Temperatures will climb to the mid-to-late twenties in Northern Ireland.
'Politicians are playing with people's lives': Campaign group calls for government to act on climate change
10:25 , Harriette BoucherThe government must put the public’s need for cheaper bills and a safe climate ahead of the profits of oil companies, a campaigning organisation has stated.
Robert Palmer, the deputy director of Uplift, which supports the transition away from oil and gas production, said: “Politicians are playing with people’s lives.
“We smashed the June heat record yesterday and are set to break it again today. This morning the papers are reporting the devastating impact of this heat: one in six babies are living in overheated homes, hospitals are canceling operations, 10 people have been taken to hospital after being stuck on the red hot M25. We’re seeing a meltdown in normal services, including shut schools, halted trains and struggling care homes.
“This is the impact of climate change, right on our shores. Yet we have politicians going out to bat for more North Sea oil and gas drilling, which is the very thing driving climate breakdown.
“The huge Rosebank oil field isn’t compatible with safe climate limits or the UK’s commitments to tackling climate change.
“Politicians need to wake up to the reality that the rest of the country is facing, which is that climate change is already disrupting lives – and act on it. Whoever leads our country must decide to put the public’s need for cheaper bills and a safe climate ahead of the profits of oil companies.”
In pictures: Londoners brave the Tube during record-high temperatures
10:20 , Harriette Boucher
Where bin collection rules are changing due to UK heatwave
10:12 , Harriette Boucher
Where bin collection rules are changing due to UK heatwave
Mapped: Where weather warnings are in place as another scorching day forecast
10:02 , Harriette Boucher
What is a hosepipe ban and why has it been introduced in Kent?
09:43 , Harriette BoucherA hosepipe ban has been introduced for large parts of Kent due to high temperatures and record demand for water across the county.
South East Water announced the Temporary Use Ban on Thursday morning.
It means customers under the ban can not use hosepipes for watering gardens, washing cars, patios and boats and for filling swimming and paddling pools.
Anyone caught breaching the ban faces a maximum fine of up to £1,000 in a magistrates' court under the Water Industry Act 1991.
“Introducing a Temporary Use Ban will help protect local water resources and ensure we can continue to provide a reliable supply of drinking water to customers and essential services across the county,” South East Water said.
The restrictions are the only official hosepipe ban currently in place in the UK, however, other regions have been asked to limit their water use for essential purposes only.
Breaking: Kent households come under hosepipe ban amid 'exceptionally high' water demand
09:29 , Harriette BoucherKent households have come under a hosepipe ban as demand for water reaches “exceptionally high levels”.
South East Water has asked customers to follow the restrictions immediately, saying they will be enforced from 00:01 on 3 July.
“Following a sustained period of hot, dry weather, demand for water across Kent has reached exceptionally high levels. While we’ve worked to sustain supplies, the continued pressure on our network means we now need to reduce non-essential water use.
“Introducing a Temporary Use Ban will help protect local water resources and ensure we can continue to provide a reliable supply of drinking water to customers and essential services across the county.”
Heatwave commute: Tube passengers swelter in 40°C conditions
09:20 , Harriette BoucherOnly use water for essential purposes, households told
09:12 , Harriette BoucherCustomers are being urged to only use water when necessary, as demand surges during the UK’s record-breaking heatwave.
South East Water has asked households to only use water for essential purposes, like hygiene, drinking and cooking.
It has asked customers to pause all hose use, including for refilling paddling pools, hot tubs and jet washing.
Anglian Water has also told its customers to “ditch the hosepipe” and use a watering can instead.
Dr Geoff Darch, head of strategic asset planning at Anglian Water, said: “We need our customers’ support to keep taps flowing.
“Please think carefully about your water usage and use less water now, to help make sure that you and your community have enough water to go around.”
Thames Water said it was encouraging households to make small changes by fixing leaks, turning off taps when brushing teeth, using watering cans instead of hosepipes and sprinklers, and watering gardens early in the morning or late in the evening.
Nearly 50 killed in France heatwave
08:59 , Harriette BoucherAt least 48 people have died during the intense heatwave in France, including two young children were killed by heat in a car.
Authorities said dozens died drowning while trying to cool off in the water.
Temperatures in Paris hit a June record of 40.9C, a day after France recorded its hottest day since records began nearly 80 years ago, when temperatures peaked at 44.3C in the southwestern town of Pissos.
London’s Tower Bridge among major UK attractions closed during extreme heatwave
08:55 , Harriette BoucherTop tourist attractions across the UK are closing their doors until Friday as Brits brace for record-breaking temperatures up to 40C.
With hundreds of schools in England and Wales being forced to send children home this week, here are the UK attractions that have closed or adjusted their opening hours during the scorching temperatures:
London’s Tower Bridge among major UK attractions closed during extreme heatwave
Mayor unveils 'heat plan' to help Londoners during heatwave
08:48 , Harriette BoucherThe Mayor of London has unveiled the capital’s first ever heat plan to keep Londoners safe during increasingly frequent heatwaves.
Expanding access to public drinking water and blue spaces are among the priority areas of focus set out in the plan, entitled Heat Ready London.
Sir Sadiq Khan said he hopes it will help tackle the “huge obstacles” the city faces with rising temperatures.
It comes as the UK swelters in exceptional heat as the hottest ever June day was recorded, with provisional temperatures reaching 36.1C in Gosport, Hampshire, on Wednesday.
Heat Ready London focuses on six key sectors: the built environment, business and economy, emergency preparedness, resilience and response, health and care, green space and nature and infrastructure.
The plan sets out a series of objectives, which includes protecting Londoners from the health impacts of rising temperatures and prioritising vulnerable people in high-risk areas.
Full list of schools closing or shutting early as heatwave scorches
08:45 , Harriette Boucher
Full list of schools closing or shutting early during heatwave
Schools should stay open 'as a priority', education secretary says
08:43 , Harriette BoucherThe government is encouraging schools to stay open “as a priority” during the heatwave.
Bridget Phillipson said it was "really important” for pupils to stay in school, even when the hot weather e hot weather is "really difficult for children and staff".
She told BBC Radio 4’s Today programme that Labour was investing in schools to get “better equipped to deal with these kinds of events in the future", but that the government inherited a ‘huge backlog’ of repairs.”
Hottest June night ever after temperatures in Cardiff didn't drop below 23.5C
08:26 , Harriette BoucherHeatwave continues to cause travel chaos
07:58 , Harriette BoucherCommuters are continuing to face significant travel delays and cancellations as the extreme heat causes disruption across roads and railways.
Train passengers have been told to only travel if necessary on Thursday and Friday in areas most affected by extreme heat.
Network Rail said trains will operate at reduced speeds and services will be cut for “safety reasons”.
Jake Kelly, deputy chief executive of Network Rail, said: “Very high temperatures, like we are seeing in Great Britain and across parts of Europe, put significant strain on the railway, so our priority is to keep passengers safe while keeping services running.
“We’re asking passengers to think carefully about their plans and only travel if it’s absolutely necessary in the areas most affected areas by the extremely high temperatures that are being recorded.”
Transport for London said disruption to Tube and rail services was expected, particularly the London Overground and Elizabeth line.
National Rail has also reported delays across its network and urged people to carry water with them when they travel.
Meanwhile, more than 10 people were taken to hospital after being stranded in their cars on the M25 near Surrey on Wednesday.
A double decker electric bus was also destroyed after it caught on fire at a bus depot in Westbourne Park.
More than 10 people taken to hospital after being stranded on M25 in extreme heat
07:42 , Harriette BoucherMore than 10 people were taken to hospital after being stuck in their cars in the extreme heat on Wednesday.
At least one person was airlifted to the hospital due to dehydration.
South East Coast Ambulance Service said it responded to a number of patients stranded in traffic on the M25 near Surrey following an earlier road traffic collision, which resulted in road closures.
“The resulting congestion has been severe and prolonged, with some vehicles stationary for several hours during today’s Red Heat Alert.
“This has resulted in a number of calls from people suffering from heat related illnesses including a number of coach passengers.”
Labour MP Tony Vaughan took to social media to ask Surrey Police and National Highways for help.
“A constituent has been stuck on the M25 near Oxted for 8 hours. It is 40 degrees in her car. She has kids with her. She is running out of water. The person from the car in front has been airlifted to hospital with dehydration. Police seem to be saying it’s not their job to give out water.”
London bus catches on fire during heatwave
07:26 , Harriette BoucherA double decker electric bus was destroyed after it caught on fire during London’s hottest day.
Four fire engines and 25 firefighters were called to Western Road in Westbourne Park at 6.23pm on Wednesday.
London Fire Brigade said the incident was under control by 7.11pm.
No injuries have been reported, but two electric vehicle charging points were also destroyed.
The cause of the fire is under investigation by the Brigade's fire investigation team.
Temperature could continue to rise as heatwave brings record-breaking figures
07:17 , Harriette BoucherThe heatwave brought record-breaking temperatures on Wednesday, but forecasters warn they could rise even higher.
A rare red warning for extreme heat has been issued by the Met Office as the UK has sweltered in exceptionally hot and humid conditions.
Provisional figures suggest the temperature reached 36.1C in Gosport, Hampshire, breaking the previous June record from the summer of 1976.
The heatwave forecast is set to continue on Thursday and Friday, and the Met Office said it is possible the figure could be “beaten again”.
Wednesday’s high breaks the previous top temperature for June of 35.6C in 1976 and 1957, the forecaster said.
Temperature could continue to rise as heatwave brings record-breaking figures
Met Office five-day forecast
07:15 , Harriette BoucherToday
Plenty of sunshine, though low cloud affecting some North Sea coasts. Hot for most, exceptionally so across southern and central parts of England and Wales. Breezier than Wednesday. Wetter and cloudier for northwest Scotland, with spells of heavy rain.
Tonight
Rain in the northwest turning thundery. Further thunderstorms with strong gusty winds developing across southwest England during Thursday evening before spreading northeastwards overnight. Warm and humid for all.
Friday
Rather cloudy across northern regions with outbreaks of rain and thunderstorms, accompanied by hail and gusty winds. Peak heat transferring to eastern England, with temperatures further west dropping slightly.
Outlook for Saturday to Monday
Still hot in the southeast on Saturday. Fresher conditions gradually arriving from the west during the weekend, but this accompanied by spells of rain and thundery showers. Drier by Monday.
The record for the hottest day was beaten four times on Wednesday
07:00 , Rebecca WhittakerThe Met Office has recorded four record breaking temperatures for June.
It hit 36.1C in Gosport, Hampshire, on Wednesday. That’s slightly higher than 36C recorded at Wisley, Surrey.
Watch: Heatstroke symptoms: Key signs to look out for amid red weather warning
06:00 , Rebecca WhittakerRecap: Weather forecast for the next five days
04:00 , Rebecca WhittakerTonight:
Cloudy in the northwest, perhaps with some patchy rain for Northern Ireland and western Scotland. Largely clear elsewhere but staying very warm and muggy overnight.
Thursday:
Rain and thundery showers over northwest Scotland turning heavy at times. Low cloud and fog possibly affecting North Sea coasts. Otherwise, a widely very hot day with strong sunshine.
Outlook for Friday to Sunday:
Another hot day in the east on Friday. Fresher conditions gradually arriving from the west into the weekend, but this accompanied by spells of rain and thundery showers.
Parents are stepping up where schools aren’t – the heatwave hysteria must end
03:00 , Rebecca WhittakerTelling children that school is optional because it is hot outside is no small thing, and it’s not the only system breakdown that is making parents boil over with rage. Families have got to stop being an afterthought in this country, writes Mumsnet founder Justine Roberts
Read more here:
Parents are stepping up where schools aren’t – the heatwave hysteria must end
When will the UK heatwave end? Met Office issues forecast for 15C drop in temperature
02:00 , Rebecca WhittakerThe Met Office has revealed when the heatwave is likely to end, bringing some relief as the UK braces for extreme heat later this week.
A red weather Met Office alert stretching from London across to Somerset and Swansea, and up towards Birmingham, is in place until midnight on Thursday.
An amber warning for heat in south east England has also been extended into Saturday until 9pm, as the exceptionally hot weather looks set to linger late into the week.
But when will the heatwave end? Read more here:
When will the UK heatwave end? Met Office issues forecast for 15C drop in temperature
What is the forecast for Thursday morning?
01:00 , Rebecca WhittakerTemperatures are forecast to rise quickly this morning. London and the South of England could see temperatures reach 31C by 11am.
Temperatures will rise quickly on Thursday morning under strong June sunshine, although an increasingly brisk breeze in the south will make it feel a touch fresher in places
— Met Office (@metoffice) June 24, 2026
Stay #WeatherAware ⚠️ pic.twitter.com/lu1y0zcJ6j
Heatstroke symptoms: Key signs to look out for amid red weather warning
Thursday 25 June 2026 00:00 , Rebecca WhittakerAs the UK faces a record-setting heatwave with red weather warnings issued, people are being urged to spot the signs of heat-related illnesses.
Long periods in the sun can lead to heat exhaustion, a condition that occurs when your body overheats. Symptoms include nausea, headache, heavy sweating and dizziness.
According to the NHS, heat exhaustion can be treated by moving the affected person to a cool place, removing unnecessary clothing, drinking cold drinks and keeping the skin cool.
If not treated, it can turn into heat stroke, which can be potentially fatal. Symptoms include a very high temperature, hot skin without sweating and a fast heartbeat. You must seek medical help if you spot the symptoms of heatstroke.
Heatstroke symptoms: Key signs to look out for amid red weather warning
Dog owners told to avoid taking pets on walks
Wednesday 24 June 2026 23:30 , Becky WhittakerDog owners have been advised not to take their pets out for walks during the hot weather.
Lauren Bennett from the RSPCA told BBC Breakfast that while dogs should still be brought outside briefly to go to the toilet, they should keep to shaded areas and minimise physical exercise.
She says: "Certainly, with this red weather warning, actually we would advise probably not to walk your dogs at all because there isn't actually a cooler time of day."
She adds: "Just like people, it can be fatal, which is why we tell people to change their behaviour because our pets are completely under our control so the responsibility is on us."
Pictured: London faces hottest June day ever
Wednesday 24 June 2026 23:00 , Rebecca Whittaker
Weather forecast for the next five days
Wednesday 24 June 2026 22:30 , Rebecca WhittakerTonight:
Cloudy in the northwest, perhaps with some patchy rain for Northern Ireland and western Scotland. Largely clear elsewhere but staying very warm and muggy overnight.
Thursday:
Rain and thundery showers over northwest Scotland turning heavy at times. Low cloud and fog possibly affecting North Sea coasts. Otherwise, a widely very hot day with strong sunshine.
Outlook for Friday to Sunday:
Another hot day in the east on Friday. Fresher conditions gradually arriving from the west into the weekend, but this accompanied by spells of rain and thundery showers.
Tube temperatures near 40C as commuters brave heatwave: ‘It’s hotter than South Africa’
Wednesday 24 June 2026 22:00 , Rebecca WhittakerTemperatures on the London Underground rail network reached almost 40C on Wednesday as the day was officially declared the hottest in June on record.
Provisional outdoor highs of 36C were recorded at both Wisley in Surrey and Gosport in Hampshire, beating the previous top temperature of 35.6C set in 1976, the Met Office said as the record was broken three times in a day.
Read more here:
Tube temperatures near 40C as commuters brave heatwave: ‘Hotter than South Africa’
Nighttime temperatures won't drop below 22C in parts of England
Wednesday 24 June 2026 21:30 , Rebecca WhittakerTemperatures in the south of England are forecast to not drop below 20C.
The Met Office temperature maps suggest for parts of the South East and West it will not drop below 22C - which is known a a tropical night.
A very warm and humid night ahead for many, making for rather uncomfortable sleeping conditions
— Met Office (@metoffice) June 24, 2026
Stay #WeatherAware⚠️ pic.twitter.com/LlwF9qnpgp
Full list of schools closing or shutting early as heatwave scorches
Wednesday 24 June 2026 21:25 , Rebecca WhittakerHundreds of schools in England and Wales are being forced to send children home this week as the UK braces for extreme temperatures.
With the mercury set to reach close to 40C – and a rare red warning for extreme heat coming into force on Wednesday – teachers have expressed concern for their students’ safety during the heatwave.
Parts of the East Midlands, east of England, London & south east England, south west England, Wales, and West Midlands are under the red warning until 9pm on Thursday.
Read more here:
Full list of schools closing or shutting early during heatwave
How to keep cool at home in the heatwave
Wednesday 24 June 2026 21:00 , Rebecca WhittakerIndyBest's Deputy Editor, Sabrina Sahota has tried some of the top gadgets to help you to stay cool as temperatures soar. Here she reports on her findings:
Our expert appliances tester Joanne Lewsley has tested the best fans, which offer the cheapest and most convenient way to keep cool.
If a fan isn’t quite cutting it, she’s also reviewed the best portable air conditioners, which cost more to run but can make a genuine difference in stuffy heat.
Air coolersare another option growing in popularity – these aren’t as pricey as buying an AC unit but unlike a fan, can lower your room temperature by a few degrees.
You might be finding that lots of cooling devices are sold at the moment, so we're tracking the best fan and air conditioner deals for Amazon Prime Day, which has happened to fall during the heatwave.
We've also spotted that Lidl is about to launch a portable air conditioner, which could be your best chance at grabbing an affordable, in-stock AC unit.
North could see cloudier skies and cooler conditions this evening
Wednesday 24 June 2026 20:30 , Rebecca WhittakerWhile most of UK is baking in extreme heat, some northern parts of the country could see cloudier skies and cooler conditions, according to the Met Office.
Another hot, humid and sunny end to the day for many this evening, however cloudier skies and cooler conditions are affecting the extreme north and west of the country pic.twitter.com/14XMHkFdzu
— Met Office (@metoffice) June 24, 2026
Watch: Why women struggle more than men in a heatwave
Wednesday 24 June 2026 20:00 , Rebecca WhittakerParents are stepping up where schools aren’t – the heatwave hysteria must end
Wednesday 24 June 2026 19:30 , Nicole Wootton-CaneTelling children that school is optional because it is hot outside is no small thing, and it’s not the only system breakdown that is making parents boil over with rage. Families have got to stop being an afterthought in this country, writes Mumsnet founder Justine Roberts.
Parents are stepping up where schools aren’t – the heatwave hysteria must end
European holiday hotspots with extreme heat warnings this week
Wednesday 24 June 2026 19:00 , Nicole Wootton-CaneAs British health authorities warn people to keep out of the sun due to extreme temperatures, similar groups across Europe are releasing guidance for holidaymakers.
France has recorded its highest ever temperature this week, while community spaces in the Netherlands are being opened to the public as “cool-down” spots.
In Spain, the national weather agency is warning that extreme caution should be exercised. Temperatures are expected to reach 35C in Italy and northern Portugal, where thunderstorms are also expected.
Here are the European holiday hotspots with heatwave warnings issued for this week.
European holiday hotspots with extreme heat warnings this week
A new record temperature has been recorded
Wednesday 24 June 2026 18:41 , Rebecca WhittakerThe Met Office has recorded yet another record breaking temperature for June.
It hit 36.1C in Gosport, Hampshire, today. That’s slightly higher than 36C recorded at Wisley, Surrey.
