UK braces for return of heatwave next week

The Met Office has warned that a new heatwave is likely to hit the United Kingdom next week. Temperatures are expected to reach the low‑30s Celsius in parts of England, with the south meeting heat‑wave criteria by mid‑week, but overnight highs should be less oppressive than the record‑breaking June spell. A marine heatwave is also forecast to intensify, with sea‑surface temperatures up to 5 °C above normal along Welsh and English coasts.

Motorists have been urged to refuel before Monday because higher temperatures can reduce fuel efficiency and fuel gauges become less reliable. Fuel prices remain elevated, with petrol around 154.7 p per litre and diesel about 174.3 p. The RAC’s Rod Dennis stressed there is no explosion risk when topping up in hot weather.

"Heatwave criteria is likely to be met by mid‑week in parts of the south," said Met Office meteorologist Honor Criswick. The public is also advised to be cautious of cold‑water shock despite warmer sea temperatures.