UK heat-health alerts widened as temperatures head toward 36C

UK heat-health alerts have been widened across parts of England as the country heads into the peak of its third heatwave of 2026, with temperatures forecast to reach around 36C on Friday.

Officials are warning that the hot spell could put extra pressure on the NHS and create greater risks for older people and those with pre-existing medical conditions. Reporting says amber heat-health alerts are in place across nine areas, with the strongest warnings expected to run until Sunday, July 12.

The Met Office is forecasting widespread sunshine and dry conditions as high pressure remains over the UK. Greater London and Cambridgeshire are among the areas most likely to see the highest temperatures.

Health warning

UKHSA’s alert system is designed to flag the potential health impact of hot weather. Amber alerts indicate a level of risk that can affect the wider population and place extra strain on health services.

Dr. Agostinho Sousa and other officials have warned that the heat can be especially dangerous for older adults and people with existing health conditions.

Wildfire risk

The National Fire Chiefs Council has also warned that the dry, hot and windy weather is increasing wildfire risk.

That concern adds to the public-safety picture as the heat builds toward Friday’s peak. Reporting suggests temperatures may ease slightly over the weekend, but warm conditions are likely to persist into next week, especially in the southwest.

What to watch next

The main things to watch are whether UKHSA extends or upgrades any alerts beyond July 12, how far temperatures rise in the hottest parts of the country, and whether the dry spell leads to transport, school or wildfire disruption.