Friday, July 17, 2026
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UK Faces Double Heatwave Threat: Cooler Weekend Precedes Looming Highs

Despite a slight cooling trend expected this weekend, weather forecasts indicate the likelihood of another upcoming heatwave in the following week. The Met Office predicts temperatures to decrease to 28C in the southern regions and 24C in the northern parts tomorrow, with peak temperatures on Sunday anticipated to reach around 26C in the south and 24C in the north.

This shift in temperatures will mark the end of a 13-day stretch of consecutive 30C days, potentially bringing the UK’s third heatwave of 2026 to a close. An official heatwave is declared when temperatures exceed the heatwave threshold for three continuous days, ranging from 28C in the south-east to 25C in regions further away from the south-east.

Looking ahead, the GFS weather model suggests the possibility of a fourth heatwave looming. Data indicates temperatures could surge to 30C or 31C in western areas by next Friday, with temperatures climbing to 29C as far north as Yorkshire. Maps for the following Saturday show potential highs of 33C in southern England, while parts of Wales near the England border may reach 29C or 30C, and the Midlands and East Anglia could see temperatures as high as 32C.

Sunday of the upcoming week is expected to bring the warmest conditions, with potential highs of 35C or 36C across southern and central England and 33C or 34C in Wales and northern England. Monday is also likely to be warm, with highs of 33C possible in eastern England and South Yorkshire, and 31C in the north-west.

Temperature anomaly maps for this period show the UK, particularly England and Wales, shaded in dark red areas, indicating temperatures are set to rise significantly above the seasonal average. The GFS weather model suggests that 16 English counties could experience temperatures of 35C or higher next week.

The Met Office anticipates a less hot day tomorrow compared to the recent heat, with generally fine conditions and the possibility of isolated thundery showers. Sunday is expected to be near the seasonal norm, with most areas remaining dry, although patchy rain is possible in the north. Temperatures are likely to trend above the seasonal norm once again next week.

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