Weather forecasts indicate a potential return of temperatures exceeding 30C in the UK, possibly marking the fourth heatwave of the year. The country is currently experiencing its third heatwave of 2026, with temperatures in southern regions expected to remain above 30C until the weekend.
The Met Office anticipates a decrease in temperatures over the weekend, with highs of 26C in southern areas and 24C in the north by Sunday, potentially signaling the conclusion of the ongoing heatwave. However, weather models suggest a swift rise in temperatures back into the 30s shortly after. The GFS model projects highs of 30C and 31C in eastern, western, and southern England next Thursday, with potential highs of 32C in southern and south-eastern regions on Friday.
The following Saturday is expected to see a significant warming trend, with potential highs of 35C in southern and south-eastern England, and widespread temperatures of 33C and 34C across central areas. The anomaly maps for Saturday highlight regions in England and Wales where temperatures are forecasted to surpass seasonal norms, while parts of Northern Ireland and Scotland may experience below-average temperatures.
According to the GFS model, 17 English counties could witness temperatures exceeding 34C next week. David Hayter, the Met Office’s deputy chief meteorologist, noted the recent prolonged period of high temperatures and indicated a shift in weather patterns that could introduce cooler conditions but may still maintain heatwave conditions in some locations.
Despite an expected cooldown this weekend, the Met Office predicts a return to very warm conditions in southern areas post-weekend, with a possibility of thunderstorms towards the week’s end.