Met Office issues amber heat warning as UK heads for 34°C

The alert, jointly published with the UK Health Security Agency, applies to all but the far north of England, with Yorkshire and the East Midlands likely to see overnight temperatures stay above 20°C — known as "tropical nights" — for the first time this year.

An amber alert indicates that weather impacts are likely to be felt across the health and social care system, with possible knock-on effects on transport and the wider workforce. The Met Office stops short of a red alert, which would imply risk to life across the general population rather than only vulnerable groups.

What's driving it

Forecasters point to a building area of high pressure over central Europe drawing very warm air northwards over a multi-day period. The setup is similar in shape to the 2022 heat episodes that culminated in the UK's all-time record of 40.3°C, although current modelling does not yet suggest temperatures close to that mark this weekend.

Practical guidance

• Keep curtains and blinds closed on the sunny side of the house during the day.
• Drink water regularly and avoid alcohol or excessive caffeine when temperatures peak.
• Check on older neighbours, infants and anyone with a long-term health condition daily.
• Never leave children or pets in parked cars, even briefly.
• Plan outdoor exercise for before 10am or after 6pm.

Transport impact

Network Rail has confirmed precautionary speed restrictions on a number of routes from Friday afternoon through Sunday evening, with longer journey times expected on services into London King's Cross, Liverpool Street and Paddington. London Underground passengers have been reminded to carry water, particularly on the deep tube lines, where ventilation remains limited.

The weather is forecast to break on Monday, with thundery showers spreading from the south-west and a return to more typical mid-June conditions by the middle of next week.