Britain faces fifth heatwave, with temperatures potentially reaching 36°C

A new intense heatwave is expected to hit the United Kingdom, with temperatures potentially reaching 36°C in the coming days.

According to meteorological data, temperatures will begin rising gradually over the weekend. The highest figures are expected on Wednesday and Thursday, mainly in eastern and southeastern England.

Across most of England, heat-health warnings will be in effect from Saturday morning until Tuesday evening. Authorities have raised concerns about the impact high temperatures could have on health and social care services.

This is expected to be the fifth heatwave to affect Britain this year. Following prolonged periods of high temperatures, two such episodes recorded in May and June were linked to more than 2,700 excess deaths.

So far this year, temperatures have exceeded 30°C for 33 days in at least one part of the United Kingdom. The 1995 record, when the figure reached 34 days, is expected to be surpassed next week.

Alongside the heat, the country is also facing worsening drought conditions. In England and Wales, July was the driest month on record since measurements began in 1836.

The Environment Agency has said that some areas could enter drought conditions over the coming week. Reservoirs in England are currently at 69% capacity, around 12% below the long-term average for this time of year.

The lack of rainfall, combined with high temperatures, has also increased the risk of wildfires. The Fire Severity Index forecasts that the risk will reach the highest category, “exceptionally severe,” on Sunday across most of eastern and southeastern England.

British authorities are monitoring the situation, while forecasters say the heat and dry conditions could continue in the days ahead.