UK heatwave history: What was the hottest day ever recorded in the UK? Will the 2018 weather beat it?

Take a seat and strip off your jacket because things are starting to heat up in here...
Heatwave panic: Brits are worried about soaring temperatures
PA
Georgia Chambers27 July 2018

Have you been outside recently? Bit hot, isn't it?

While Londoners have been enjoying weeks of glorious sunshine, this week's heat has been kind of similar to a pizza oven - except you're the pizza and your crusts are getting a little on the crispy side.

On Thursday, the UK endured its hottest day of the year, with temperatures reaching 34 C in the capital.

But what was the hottest temperature ever recorded in the UK, and will this summer's vengeful heatwave do the impossible and break the current record?

Here's what you need to know:

What was the hottest temperature ever recorded in the UK?

The hottest temperature ever recorded was set in Faversham, Kent in August 2003, reaching a steamy 38 C.

Hot (sorry!) on the tail of this record were:

  • 35.2 C - Hawarden Bridge, Wales in August 1990
  • 30.8 C - Greycook, Scottish Borders in August 2003
  • 30.8 C - Shaw's Bridge/Knockarevan in July 1983/1976

When was the last big heatwave in the UK?

The last major heatwave to hit the UK was in 1976 when there were 18 consecutive days of temperatures surpassing 30 C, compared to 2018's current tally of 9.

The hottest temperature recorded during the 1976 heatwave was 35.6 C in Southampton.

The UK also suffered a severe drought during this time, and the government appointed a Drought Minister (true story, look it up).

The famous heatwave of 1976 - In pictures

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Will the UK beat its heatwave record?

Considering everyone seems to start instantly pouring with sweat as soon as they step outside, it seems likely, doesn't it?

Highs of up to 37 C are forecast in southern, eastern and central England for Friday.

The Met Office has said "if all conditions come together" the record could be beaten this week.

What warnings have the Met Office given about the heatwave?

The Met Office has issued a yellow warning for risk of thunderstorms in London and the south-east on Friday afternoon and evening.

A level 3 heat watch has been issued for a large part of England, which means the maximum daytime temperature threshold has been exceeded.

Public Health England has advised people to stay out of the sun where possible and take particular care of the elderly, young children and babies and the unwell.

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