The UK is currently facing its third heatwave of the year, with temperatures expected to soar to 35C (95F) on Thursday. This extreme heatwave has prompted Amber heat health alerts to be extended to the north of England, covering almost all of the country. The alerts indicate that the heatwave will significantly impact health services and potentially cause travel disruptions until Sunday evening. NHS England has warned that many ambulance services are under sustained pressure, and rail services have advised passengers to expect disruptions.
While the temperatures are not expected to reach the record-breaking levels of June's heatwave, the heat is anticipated to last longer, possibly until the end of next week. The alerts for north-west England and Yorkshire join those already in place for the Midlands, eastern, and southern England. A yellow alert, indicating a significant impact is possible, covers the north-east. The worst of the heat is expected in southern and eastern England, where parts have already declared a heatwave after five consecutive days at or above 30C.
The heatwave has already caused disruptions to rail services, with several c2c trains suspended and East Midlands Railway advising essential travel only. West Midlands Railway and London Northwestern Railway have reported heat-related issues affecting their services. Transport for Wales has also implemented a speed restriction due to high track temperatures, with disruption expected until 21:30. The electricity grid operator Neso has issued a request for more power to be made available during the heatwave, as extreme heat can reduce energy efficiency and increase electricity demand.
The health service has urged the public, especially vulnerable groups like children, the elderly, and those with existing conditions, to take the heat seriously. National medical director Prof. Frankie Swords has called for others to look out for those who might be at risk. The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has warned of an increased risk of wildfires due to the dry and hot weather, advising people to avoid using disposable barbecues in open countryside, parks, and moorlands.
This heatwave comes on the heels of the hottest June ever recorded across western Europe, with UK temperatures peaking at a record-breaking 37.7C in Norfolk. The prolonged heatwave, which could last well into next week, is expected to be one of the UK's longest since 1976. As the country grapples with the consequences of extreme heat, it raises questions about the resilience of infrastructure and the vulnerability of certain populations to such weather events.
