UK heatwave pushes temperatures to record highs and sparks safety warnings

Temperatures across much of the United Kingdom have surged to the low‑mid 30s °C, with central southern England forecast to reach 37‑38 °C, threatening to break the recent June record set in Gosport. The Met Office has issued a red extreme‑heat warning for the South Midlands, south‑east Wales and southern England, with amber warnings remaining in place for other parts of England until Saturday. Transport operators have warned passengers to travel only if essential, and heavy showers and thunderstorms are expected in south‑west England, bringing the risk of localized flash flooding.

In the North East, residents and visitors have flocked to the coast for relief, engaging in paddle‑boarding, swimming and jet‑skiing. The RNLI reminded the public that sea‑surface temperatures remain low and warned of cold‑water shock, urging swimmers to stay within lifeguarded areas and follow safety guidelines.

Health and social‑care services are bracing for significant impacts as the amber warning notes heightened risks to vulnerable groups.