UK weather: Heatwave approaches two-week mark
The UK is experiencing an extended heatwave, with some areas recording nearly two weeks of temperatures above 30C. Meteorologists attribute the prolonged heat to a 'heat dome' caused by a slow-moving high-pressure system and broader climate change trends.
Why it matters
The intensity and duration of this heatwave highlight the accelerating impacts of climate change on European weather patterns.
Image source, Andy Rain / EPA By Sarah Keith-Lucas Lead Weather Presenter Published 17 July 2026, 00:28 BST Some parts of the UK are now approaching a fortnight of heatwave conditions.
Places in southern England have recorded an unbroken run of 13 days above their heatwave criteria, and with Merryfield in Somerset reaching 30.6C (87.1F) on Thursday, the UK has seen 12 consecutive days at or above 30C, the longest such spell since 2006.
In Bournemouth and Heathrow, temperatures above 26C and 28C respectively have continued now for nearly two weeks and whilst some slightly cooler air will arrive from the north this weekend, a few locations may well see another few days of heatwave yet.
However, the 1976 UK record of 16 days at or above 30C seems unlikely to be broken.
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