The UK heatwave has reached its peak, with forecasters predicting extreme temperatures for the next two days. London's Heathrow airport hit a scorching 34.4°C on Thursday, breaking the previous record of seven days set in both 1976 and 2020.
As the heat continues to grip the country, hosepipe restrictions are being introduced in several areas. South East Water has implemented a temporary ban on areas of Kent, while Southern Water will bring in similar restrictions for about one million customers across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight on Friday.
The heatwave has also led to record-breaking weather events, with scientists warning that these events are becoming more intense and frequent due to climate change. The burning of fossil fuels is largely responsible for this trend, and UK officials have warned that the risk of drought conditions in areas of the country is becoming increasingly likely.
The UK Health Security Agency has updated its amber health alerts to include the East of England, Yorkshire and the Humber, and London from Thursday to Sunday, warning of significant impacts on health and social care services. Yellow heat health alerts have also been issued for northern England until Sunday.
The extreme heat is putting pressure on the electricity system, with the National Grid forecasting a tight period for electricity margins on Thursday evening. The National Fire Chiefs Council has also warned of an increasing risk of wildfires, advising people to avoid using disposable barbecues in open countryside.
