Britain recorded its warmest day on Tuesday with a provisional high near 39.1 degrees, a figure that surpassed previous records and signaled the potential for even hotter conditions to follow in the coming hours, according to provisional data from the national meteorological service. Weather authorities emphasized that the trend could push temperatures higher as the day unfolds, highlighting an unusual and intense heat pattern across parts of the country.
A measured spike of 39.1 degrees was logged in the town of Charlwood, within the county of Surrey just west of London, marking a new national record and surpassing the previous benchmark set in 2019 of 38.7 degrees. This update reflects the persistent heat driving record readings across multiple sites as authorities monitor evolving conditions and prepare for further high temperatures in the near term.
While much of the United Kingdom remains under a red heat alert, the broader territory is categorized as amber, indicating a significant but slightly lower level of risk as temperatures continue to rise. Public health and safety guidance remains in place, with officials stressing the importance of hydration, staying cool indoors or in shaded areas, and minimizing exposure to the hottest part of the day to protect vulnerable groups and reduce health impacts.
Experts note that these temperatures are extraordinary due to their potential to affect people and infrastructure. The heat has implications for energy demand, healthcare services, and transportation networks, prompting authorities to advise everyone to exercise caution and to adjust routines accordingly to avoid heat stress and related hazards.
Officials urged the public to prioritize personal protection, maintain high hydration levels, close curtains or blinds to reduce indoor heat accumulation, and avoid unnecessary travel during peak sun hours. The guidance aims to minimize heat-related health risks and to help households stay comfortable and safe as the heat persists.
In the capital, Transport for London issued practical travel advice as the network begins to feel the strain from the heat. People were encouraged to travel only when essential, with widespread expectations of possible cancellations and delays across subway services due to heat-related operational challenges. Rail operators also reported disruptions on several routes, particularly those linking London with northern regions, as high temperatures strain equipment and schedules.
By Monday, London area aviation faces operational constraints after Luton Airport temporarily suspended some flights to and from the north of the city to address runway damage caused by sustained heat. The incident underscores how extreme heat can affect air and rail infrastructure, prompting coordinated responses from multiple agencies and providers to keep essential services functioning while safeguarding travelers and staff.