UK heatwave to bring 33C temperatures this weekend with thunderstorm risk

Temperatures are forecast to reach 33C in parts of the South West on Saturday and Sunday after a peak of 35.5C was recorded earlier in the week. Amber heat health alerts issued by the UK Health Security Agency cover the Midlands, eastern and southern England until 9pm on 12 July. Yellow alerts apply across northern England for the same period.

Weekend forecast The Met Office said Saturday will be generally sunny with a risk of low cloud along eastern coasts of England. Sunday is expected to follow a similar pattern with highs of 33C in the South West, including Taunton and Yeovil. High pressure is expected to remain in charge through much of next week but will gradually migrate northwards, according to deputy chief forecaster Tom Crabtree.

This shift will bring an easterly wind to the South and move the focus for the hottest conditions toward the South West.

Longer-term outlook Temperatures are likely to ease slightly into early next week while many areas stay dry and very warm. There is a chance of thunderstorms spreading into parts of the South and South West. The Met Office has recorded the hottest June on record for England and the second warmest in Wales. A provisional new national record of 37.7C was set in Lingwood, Norfolk, last week.