Amber heat health alerts were extended to the north of England as the third heatwave of the year saw temperatures soar to 35C (95F) on Thursday.
The alerts now cover almost all of England, indicating that the heat is likely to have a significant impact on health services and cause possible travel disruption until 21:00 BST on Sunday.
Rush-hour commuters faced delays, cancellations and slower rail services on Thursday evening, while NHS England warned many of its ambulance services were facing “sustained pressure” due to the heatwave.
While temperatures are not due to match those recorded in June’s record-breaking heatwave, the heat may last longer – possibly until the end of next week.
Thursday’s high of 35.5C, recorded in Surrey, meant the UK marked a record-breaking eighth day this year in which temperatures reached or exceeded 34C, beating the seven days seen in 1976 and 2020.
A further temperature reading at or above 34C is expected as the heatwave peaks on Friday, adding to the two during May’s heatwave, four in June’s and so far two in July.
Elsewhere, Wales recorded its highest temperature of 31.3C in Cardiff, Scotland reached 29.3C in Charterhall, and Northern Ireland saw 27.5C in Killowen.
The fresh amber alerts for north-west England and Yorkshire – issued in situations that could potentially put the whole population at risk – joined those already in force for the Midlands, eastern, and southern England.
A yellow alert, indicating that significant impact is possible, covers the north-east.
But the worst of the heat was recorded in south-eastern England, parts of which declared a heatwave on Monday after five days at or above 30C, placing additional pressure on players and spectators at Wimbledon.
Thursday’s high approached the record 35.7C seen at the London tennis championship in 2015, where this year additional water and electrolytes are being provided to players, as well as iced towels and umbrellas during changeovers.
A 10-minute break can be requested between sets if the temperature and humidity pass a certain threshold.
