UK heatwaves - data and advice

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.

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 19^th July 2022 of 40.3ºC.

Record temperature in Wales

On the 19^th 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 18^th July 2022 with 34.8ºC.

Record temperature in Northern Ireland

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

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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, increasingly the likelihood of breakdowns, fatigue, and breakdowns.

• 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 cars.
• 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?

Although the weather forecast is constantly changing, the next predicted heatwave is in early July 2026.

Temperatures in the UK could exceed more than 30 degrees for several days.

This will follow an unseasonably colder period across the country.