Forecasters say temperatures could reach 36C, with health alerts in place and risks to rail lines, power networks and vulnerable people.
The UK faces its fifth heatwave of the summer as temperatures reach the mid-30s Celsius this week, with the Met Office considering rare amber or red extreme heat warnings.
Following the driest July in England and Wales since records began in 1836, the Environment Agency monitors a widespread drought affecting more than 25 million people under hosepipe bans.
Thursday is expected to be the hottest day, as Met Office meteorologist Tom Morgan warned of "potential impacts" to railway lines and power networks, with temperatures locally reaching 36C.
Yellow heat health alerts from the Health Security Agency remain in place across the Midlands and London until Tuesday, with authorities warning of "significant impacts" on services if conditions persist.
Globally, 2026 is tracking as the third hottest year on record, following extreme weather that caused more than 2,800 excess deaths earlier this summer as Europe experienced record-breaking temperatures throughout June and July.
BIRMINGHAM. The British heatwave is here. When Daniel Ståhl is to throw the European Championship gold medal on Thursday, it is at its worst. – My philosophy is that you have to be prepared for everything, he says.