Last reviewed: 5 June 2026
UK weather models are indicating a possible heatwave in June 2026. The Met Office issues Heat Health Alerts when temperatures reach levels that pose a risk to health. Search interest for heatwave forecasts exceeded 5,000 searches on 5 June.
## What is a heatwave in UK terms? The Met Office defines a heatwave as a period of at least three consecutive days where the maximum temperature meets or exceeds a regionally specific threshold. Thresholds vary by region - for example, 28 degrees Celsius in parts of south-east England, and 25 degrees in northern England and Scotland. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and the Met Office jointly issue Heat Health Alerts at four levels - Green, Yellow, Amber and Red - to advise NHS services, local authorities and the public of the health risk from heat. ## NHS guidance during a heatwave
- Drink plenty of fluids and avoid excess alcohol
- Keep out of the sun between 11am and 3pm
- Wear light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing
- Check on elderly neighbours, family and friends
- Keep homes cool: close curtains on south-facing windows during the day
- Never leave children or animals in parked vehicles
- Call NHS 111 if you or someone else feel unwell from the heat
## Financial impact of a heatwave **Energy bills:** A heatwave typically reduces gas usage but can increase electricity consumption where households use electric fans or portable air conditioning units. Air conditioning units can add 1-3 kWh per hour to electricity consumption depending on the unit size. At the current Ofgem price cap rate of approximately 24p per kWh (Q2 2026), this equates to 24p-72p per hour of use. **Home insurance:** Prolonged heat can cause subsidence in clay soils as the ground dries out and shrinks. Subsidence is covered under most standard home buildings insurance policies, but you may need to report any cracks in external walls to your insurer. Retain records and photographs. **Travel disruption:** Rail operators may impose speed restrictions during heatwaves to prevent track buckling. If your train is delayed by more than 30 minutes, you may be entitled to compensation under the Delay Repay scheme operated by most UK rail operators. ## Where to find current forecasts The official UK weather forecast is provided by the Met Office at **metoffice.gov.uk**. Heat Health Alerts are published jointly by the UKHSA and Met Office.
