London: The United Kingdom is preparing for its third and more widespread heatwave of 2025, with unseasonably hot and dry conditions affecting large parts of the country. According to the Met Office, extensive areas now meet the official criteria for a heatwave, with sunny, arid weather expected to persist through the weekend.
High-pressure systems continue to dominate the weather pattern, with temperatures in some regions projected to reach between 33°C and 34°C over the next two days. Met Office Chief Meteorologist Steve Willington highlighted that this heatwave is broader in scope compared to previous ones this summer, indicating a more extensive and intense weather event.
On Friday, the UK Health Security Agency and the Met Office issued an amber heat-health alert for much of England. This warning suggests that the effects of the heat are likely to impact the health system broadly, with increased risks for vulnerable groups such as those over 65 and individuals with pre-existing health conditions like respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, as reported by Xinhua.
Meanwhile, the Environment Agency announced that England is experiencing the driest start to a year since 1976. Reservoir levels have fallen at nearly 75% of monitored sites during June, and all regions now report below-average water storage. Officials warn that ongoing dry conditions could exert additional pressure on water supplies and the environment.
Climate change experts like Tim Fox, a fellow of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, emphasized that these heatwaves are no longer isolated incidents but are expected to become more frequent. He warned that longer periods of extreme heat could have far-reaching impacts beyond mere discomfort.
The heat is expected to continue into Saturday, with parts of central and north-east Scotland facing highs of up to 31°C, potentially making it the hottest day of the year so far in the region. With this, the UK has already experienced third official heatwaves in 2025.