A blistering spell of heat will grip Peterborough into next week, with the Met Office forecasting 33°C on Thursday and 32°C on Friday under relentless sunshine.
UV levels will peak at 7, rated High, prompting advice to seek shade around midday, cover up, and apply sunscreen. Pollen counts are Very High on Thursday and High on Friday, easing slightly from Saturday. The UK Health Security Agency has issued Amber and Yellow heat health alerts, warning of significant strain on health and social care services.
This marks the third heatwave of the year for many areas, with high pressure delivering dry, sunny days and temperatures widely above 30°C across England and Wales. Deputy Chief Forecaster Tom Crabtree said cooler air will edge into the southeast over the weekend, but the transition will be gradual, with the warmest conditions shifting towards the southwest. Humidity is lower than during the late June heatwave, allowing some overnight cooling, though towns and cities may still see uncomfortably warm nights.
The National Fire Chiefs Council has urged extra care outdoors, with the dry, warm weather and increasing winds raising wildfire risk. Residents are advised to avoid disposable barbecues in the countryside. Temperatures will slowly dip to around 26°C from Saturday, remaining above average into early next week.
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