The Met Office has revealed when the current July 2026 heatwave is likely to end, after some amber heat health alerts were issued.
Parts of the UK are expected to experience the third heatwave of the year this week, with extensive sunshine and light winds.
Amber heat-health alerts have also been issued by the UK Health Security Agency for the Midlands, eastern and southern England from 9am on Wednesday, July 8 to 9pm on Sunday, July 12.
However, Met Office Deputy Chief Forecaster Steven Keates has shared that the temperatures will not be as high as the heatwave experienced in June.
He said: "Temperatures this week are not expected to reach the highs we witnessed last month, though parts of southern England in particular are likely to see several days in the low 30s Celsius, and a few places could reach 34-35°C later this week.
“Night-time temperatures again will not be as high as what we experienced in June, though some larger urban areas are likely to remain in the high teens Celsius overnight, especially later in the week, and there is a chance that a tropical night (where temperatures do not fall below 20°C) may be recorded in a few places.
“Much of England and Wales will be hot, and the heat will extend to parts of Scotland and Northern Ireland too, though here peak temperatures are more likely to be in the upper 20s Celsius."
When is the July heatwave likely to end?
The Met Office has said that the heatwave will likely last until the beginning of next week (week beginning Monday, July 13).
From there, temperatures should decrease slightly, although many places will still be warm.
The forecaster shared: "The very warm conditions are likely to last into the weekend, but with increasing humidity and a growing risk of showers or isolated thunderstorms.
"Into early next week, temperatures are likely to trend down slightly, although many areas will stay dry, fine and still warm."
What is an amber heat health alert?
The alert system aims to provide an early warning to healthcare providers, the social care sector, voluntary organisations and Government departments that temperatures are likely to impact the health of the population.
The alerts – yellow, amber or red – depend on the level of impact expected.
Yellow alerts usually mean temperatures are unlikely to impact most people, but those who are particularly vulnerable may struggle to cope.
However, an amber alert would indicate the impact is expected to be felt across the whole of the health service, with the potential for the whole population to be at risk.
In these circumstances, a co-ordinated response from services is required.
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How to stay cool in summer in the UK
The NHS suggests staying out of the heat if possible, adding that it is best to stay shaded, particularly between 11am and 3pm.
It also recommends using sunscreen, wearing a hat and light clothes, and avoiding exercise or activity that makes you hotter.
To cool yourself down, have cold food and drinks and have a cool shower or put cool water on your skin or clothes.
It is also vital to keep your living space cool, closing windows during the day and opening them at night when it is cooler.
Are you looking forward to temperatures cooling down a bit? Let us know in the comments.
