UK Faces New Red Heat Warning as Cooler Weather Approaches Amid Thunderstorm Risk

The United Kingdom is bracing for another day of extreme heat, with temperatures building rapidly on Friday. A Met Office red warning for extreme heat remains in effect for southeastern and central southern England, including Oxfordshire, until 9 PM. In these areas, temperatures are forecast to soar to between 35C and 37C (95F to 98.6F).

Thursday saw record-breaking temperatures across the UK, with England reaching 36.7C in Merryfield, Somerset, setting a new UK record for the highest June temperature. Wales also recorded a new June high of 36.6C in Cardiff. Scotland and Northern Ireland experienced their highest temperatures of the year so far.

While the heatwave continues in some regions, cooler air is beginning to move in from the west, offering some respite. However, the Met Office has also issued warnings for thunderstorms, indicating a potential for unsettled weather alongside the high temperatures. An amber warning for extreme heat covers a wider area across the Midlands and East Anglia, where temperatures are still expected to reach the low 30s Celsius.