UK heatwaves - data and advice

Consumer Editor

7 minute read|6th Jul 2026

UK heatwaves are becoming more frequent, bringing prolonged periods of higher temperatures – which can seriously impact drivers.

Hot weather can cause vehicles to overheat and result in dehydration for the person behind the wheel.

In this driving in the UK guide, we look at the definition and what drivers should do during a heatwave.

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What is a heatwave?

According to the Met Office, a heatwave is an extended spell of unusually hot weather for a particular area and time of year, sometimes accompanied by high humidity.

In the UK, a heatwave is officially recorded when a location experiences at least three consecutive days with daily maximum temperatures at or above a defined threshold.

These thresholds vary by region, ranging from 25°C in parts of Scotland, Northern Ireland, northern England, Wales and south-west England, to between 26°C and 28°C in central and south-east England.

Record temperature in England

Both England’s and the UK’s record temperature happened in Coningsby in Lincolnshire on the 19th July 2022 of 40.3ºC.

Record temperature in Wales

On the 19th July 2022, record temperatures were set in Wales in Hawarden, Flintshire at 37.1ºC.

Record temperature in Scotland

Charterhall in Scotland set record temperatures in the country on the 18th July 2022 with 34.8ºC.

Record temperature in Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland’s highest ever recorded temperature was 31.3ºC, which was set on 21th July 2021 in Castlederg, Country Tyrone.

There are simple steps motorists can take to reduce the risk of a breakdown in a heatwave. Make sure oil levels are sufficient and top up if needed. Coolant should also sit between the ‘min’ and ‘max’ markers - if it isn't, top it up yourself when the engine is cold and have it inspected by an RAC mobile mechanic or reputable garage as soon as possible.

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Advice for driving in a heatwave

Driving in a heatwave can be both uncomfortable and risky, so preparation is vital.

Higher temperatures can affect both the driver and the vehicle, increasing the likelihood of a breakdown.

Check your vehicle before travelling: Make sure that your coolant and engine oil is topped up – as well as your windscreen washer fluid. To help you with this, we have guides on how to check your coolant and how to check your oil
Keep your tyres in good condition: Heat increases tyre pressure, so inspect them regularly. Also look out for any cracks or damage to the tyres and check the tread depth.
Avoid driving at peak heat if possible: Check the weather forecast before leaving and try not to travel when the day reaches its highest temperature. Early mornings or in the evening are better options.
Use sun protection: Sunglasses and sun cream are essential for drivers during the summer months – so make sure they are packed in the car.
Air conditioning: Before the hot weather arrives, check your vehicle’s air con is working correctly. If the air blows warm or hot, the air con may need re-gassing.
Take regular breaks: Drink lots of water and use rest stops to refresh and refocus.

Never leave pets in the car in hot weather. According to the RSPCA, even when it's 22 degrees Celsius outside, the interior of the car could reach 47 degrees within 60 minutes.

How many heatwaves does the UK experience every year?

According to the Met Office, there are between 4 and 10 heatwaves each year in the UK.

When is the next heatwave?

The UK is set to experience its third heatwave in as many months this week, although the Met Office says temperatures are unlikely to reach the extreme highs seen earlier this summer.

Parts of southern England could see temperatures climb to around 35C later in the week, a few degrees below the 37.7C recorded during June's heatwave.

While conditions will be notably hot, they are not expected to challenge national records. The UK's highest temperature remains 40.3C, measured in Coningsby, Lincolnshire, during the record-breaking heatwave of July 2022.

Hottest temperatures by month in the UK

According to the Met Office, these are the hottest temperatures ever recorded in the UK for each month of the year.

Month	Temperature	Date	Location
January	19.9°C	January 24th 2024	Achfary (Sutherland)
February	21.2°C	February 26th 2019	Kew Gardens (London)
March	25.6°C	March 29th 1968	Mepal (Cambridgeshire)
April	29.4°C	April 16th 1949	Camden Square (London)
May	35.1°C	May 26th 2026	Kew Gardens (London)
June	37.3°C	June 26th 2026	Santon Downham (Suffolk)
July	40.3°C	July 19th 2022	Coningsby (Lincolnshire)
August	38.5°C	August 10th 2003	Faversham (Kent)
September	35.6°C	September 2nd 1906	Bawtry, Hesley Hall (South Yorkshire)
October	29.9°C	October 1st 2011	Gravesend (Kent)
November	22.4°C	November 1st 2015	Trawsgoed (Ceredigion)
December	18.7°C	December 28th 2019	Achfary (Sutherland)

^{Source: Met Office}

Heatwave FAQs

How long does a heatwave last?

A heatwave typically lasts three to five days, however, it is not uncommon for a heatwave to last seven days in the UK.

In other countries around the world, heatwaves can last several weeks. Local pressure systems, jet stream patterns, geography, and time of year all play a factor.

When was the 40 degree heatwave in the UK?

The UK has only exceeded the 40 degree temperature once in recorded history, on July 19th 2022 in Coningsby, Lincolnshire.

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