Temperatures soared to 35C this week as southern and eastern parts of England breached the heatwave threshold. While the mercury is expected to dip slightly this weekend, it may not be long before we witness 35C once more.
The GFS weather model indicates temperatures climbing from August 11, with highs of 31C likely across much of eastern, central and southern England, as well as parts of Wales close to the border.
Maximum temperatures could potentially reach 35C on August 12, according to GFS model data. The Midlands and south-east are forecast to be the hottest regions, although 33C remains possible as far north as Yorkshire.
Highs of 34C are anticipated in East Anglia on August 13. The data reveals that much of central, southern and eastern England.
Such temperatures would officially constitute the fifth heatwave of 2026.
An official heatwave is declared when temperatures meet the ‘heatwave threshold’ for three consecutive days. The threshold stands at 28C across the south-east, where conditions are typically warmer, dropping to 25C the further from the south-east you travel.
Temperature anomaly maps covering August 11 to August 13 show the UK blanketed in deep red shading, indicating that temperatures will climb considerably above the seasonal norm.
The GFS model maps suggest 11 counties — all in England — could reach 35C or above later this month. UK counties facing 35C or more.
The Met Office suggests temperatures could become “very warm or hot” as August approaches. However, there is also potential for “thundery plumes” across certain areas.
The Met Office forecast for 5th August to 14th August states: “A generally rather changeable period looks likely, with many places likely to see some much needed rain or showers at times but also some more sunshine. Initially, some rain or showers will affect many parts, this heavy and possibly thundery in places.
“After a drier, brighter few days, further changeable or unsettled conditions may develop as we head towards mid-August. This may be due to frontal systems moving in from the Atlantic or thundery plumes moving north from the continent or a combination of both.
“Temperatures will likely be a little above average overall, and there is the potential for some very warm or hot and humid spells, especially in the south, although perhaps not the heat we have seen in recent weeks.”