UK heatwave threatens record 38°C temperatures

The Met Office has expanded an amber extreme‑heat warning to cover much of England, Wales and the Midlands from Monday through Thursday, with forecasts of temperatures reaching 38 °C and, in some model runs, as high as 41 °C. Meteorologists say the June heat could break the long‑standing record of 35.6 °C set in 1976. Deputy chief forecaster Tom Crabtree warned that “the combination of heat and humidity will be oppressive and bring impacts across society from public health and infrastructure, to power and water supplies.” Health officials have issued amber and yellow heat‑health alerts, urging people to stay hydrated, avoid outdoor activity between 11 am and 3 pm, and check on vulnerable neighbours. The heat is also expected to strain power systems, cause road, rail and air‑travel delays, and produce “tropical nights” when temperatures stay above 20 °C after sunset. Regional warnings include London, Greater Manchester, Yorkshire, Cheshire and Merseyside, with local councils adjusting services such as earlier bin collections to protect workers. Authorities stress that the heatwave could affect the entire UK population, especially the elderly and those with pre‑existing health conditions.