The BBC’s department for weather forecasting and broadcasting
A persistent high-pressure heat dome is trapping heat and humidity over continental Europe, driving record temperatures from France to the UK. The phenomenon is linked to escalating temperatures due to fossil-fuel emissions, with authorities warning of health risks, wildfires, and rising energy demand.
The UK has seen a record-hot July and persistent drought across large parts of England and Wales. Hosepipe bans remain in force as cooling rain is forecast to be patchy and limited this weekend. Forecasters warn that heat and dry conditions will continue into next week, with a potential return of hotter spells in parts of the country.
The UK has faced a fourth heatwave with amber and yellow alerts across large swaths of England and parts of Wales. Temperatures peak midweek, with rainfall scarce and drought status declared in parts of Wales; authorities warn of health impacts and increasing wildfire risk. A cooler, wetter change is forecast to arrive later in the week.
Heat warnings cover much of England, with amber alerts in the East Midlands, London, the South East and East England. Yellow alerts remain for Yorkshire, the West Midlands and the South West. Officials warn of health risks, drought and heightened wildfire danger as temperatures rise this week.
The UK is experiencing its fifth heatwave of the summer, with temperatures rising to the mid-30s across England and Wales. Health alerts are in place for vulnerable groups, and authorities warn of impacts on infrastructure and water supplies as a heatwave extends into the week.
A lunar eclipse will dim the Moon in the early hours of Friday, turning it reddish as Earth’s shadow darkens the surface. Visibility depends on clear skies and the Moon’s low western horizon.