Over half of England is experiencing a drought, while other regions such as the North West, Yorkshire and Humber, the West Midlands, and the South West face yellow heat health warnings.
Heat warnings cover almost all of England, with amber alerts indicating significant strain on health and social care services as hospitals and care homes become too hot to cope.
The alerts also warn of possible blackouts due to power demand exceeding capacity, and an increased risk of drowning and cold‑water shock.
Forecasts predict today will be the peak of the heat, with temperatures ranging between 28 and 30 °C, and the South East and East Anglia recording the highest levels.
By Wednesday, temperatures are expected to settle into the high 20s, around 26 to 27 °C in the South East.
Grass has been bone‑dry for weeks; a gradual cooling is expected through the week, with cooler conditions toward the north and west, while central and South East England will see brief returns of hot weather and abundant sunshine.
Rain is expected to return tomorrow, with heavier precipitation in Scotland and Northern Ireland and lighter showers in parts of England.
Forecasts call for outbreaks of heavy rain in the north, accompanied by a risk of thunder, scattered showers in the south, a warm and humid atmosphere, and windy conditions in the north.
Last month marked the driest July in 190 years, with over half of England and all of Wales in drought, and total rainfall of only 5.6 mm, far below the previous record.
Bone‑dry conditions caused by three heatwaves have sparked wildfires and allowed centuries‑old gardens to resurface.
Officials advise the elderly and vulnerable to stay hydrated, avoid the sun during the hottest part of the day, and keep homes cool to stay safe during the heat.
Residents are urged to prepare for a few more days of high temperatures.
