The United Kingdom is currently enduring its third heatwave of the year, with temperatures on Thursday peaking at 35.5C in Wisley, Surrey. This marks the eighth day this year that temperatures have exceeded 34C, surpassing the previous record of seven such days set in 1976 and 2020. The current heatwave, which began earlier this week, is forecast to persist at heatwave levels until the end of next week.

This prolonged period of high temperatures underscores a concerning trend in the UK's climate. While individual daily temperature records may not be broken, the sheer number of days reaching such extreme highs is a significant indicator of changing weather patterns. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued amber and yellow heat health warnings across large parts of England, remaining in effect until Sunday evening, highlighting the potential risks to public health.

On Thursday, temperatures soared across the nation. Wales saw highs of 31.3C in Cardiff, Scotland reached 29.3C in Charterhall, and Northern Ireland recorded its warmest temperature at 27.5C in Killowen. For Friday, the focus of the intense heat is expected to shift westward, with areas like Berkshire, Wiltshire, Hampshire, Oxfordshire, and eastern Wales potentially experiencing temperatures between 34C and 35C.

However, a potential shift in weather is anticipated over the weekend. A north-easterly breeze on Saturday is expected to introduce cooler air from the North Sea, offering some respite, particularly to eastern England. Despite this, southern and eastern regions are still likely to experience temperatures meeting heatwave criteria. Looking ahead, while the weekend may bring some relief, many areas are still predicted to reach official heatwave thresholds for much of the following week before more unsettled weather arrives.

This year's heatwave statistics are particularly noteworthy. The two days with temperatures exceeding 34C in the current heatwave add to the two from May's heatwave and four from June's, establishing a new calendar year record. This surpasses the previous record of seven days set in 1976 and 2020. During June's heatwave, the UK recorded its highest ever June temperature of 37.7C in Lingwood, Norfolk, and Wales also set a new June record.

Comparisons are inevitably being drawn to the severe heatwave of 1976, which saw 16 consecutive days above 30C. However, current forecasts suggest this record is unlikely to be broken by the present event. The all-time highest temperature recorded in the UK remains 40.3C, set in Coningsby, Lincolnshire, during the unprecedented heatwave of 2022.

The UKHSA heat health alerts are in place to mitigate the impact on vulnerable populations. These alerts signify that significant strain is likely on health and social care services, with particular concern for the elderly, the very young, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions.

As the heatwave continues, authorities are urging the public to take precautions. Staying hydrated, avoiding strenuous activity during the hottest parts of the day, and checking on vulnerable neighbours are among the key recommendations to manage the risks associated with prolonged high temperatures.