UK Weather: A two-week heat wave is approaching

This year will already be unusual for weather records in the UK, with monthly temperatures breaking by more than two degrees in May and June.

This is the third heat wave of 2026. At the same point last year, we saw the third heat wave of 2025. However, last July some places in the south saw four consecutive days of over 30C.

So far in July we have had 12 days above 30C and 13 of them. Heat wave requirements Throughout England and Wales.

Heatwave conditions have gripped parts of Scotland and Northern Ireland this week but the heat has been mild and short-lived.

In the year Comparisons are being made to the historic warmest summer of 1976. While that year still holds the record for the longest heat wave, this year saw record high temperatures and “hottest days.”

It is especially known for its dryness and heat. Some places in southern England have seen it, like Wesley in Surrey. No rain in 30 days.

Much of Wales and Northern Ireland experienced a lack of rain, although parts of western Scotland were wetter than average. No place in the UK is currently in a drought since this was associated with a heat wave in 1976.

As well as the duration and frequency of the 2026 heat waves, it is the remarkable intensity.

This year saw more days – six – above 35C, and 35C was recorded in three consecutive months (May, June and July) for the first time.