The UK has logged its eighth day of 34°C+ temperatures in 2026, the most since records began in one year, the Met Office stated. The previous record of seven such days was reached in 1976 and matched in 2020. The latest achievement comes at a time when the country is currently in its third heatwave of the year.

The threshold temperature of 34°C was breached on Thursday, with parts of the country expected to see 36°C. The Met Office said a consistent high-pressure system in southern England has been responsible for the lengthy streak of warm weather. Heat-health warnings have remained in place in several regions.

This record comes after an unusually warm beginning of summer. England saw its warmest June since records began, while the UK registered its second-warmest June. The Met Office attributed high temperatures towards the end of June to contribute to the month's averages.

This prolonged period of heat has impacted public services and facilities. It has been recommended by health experts that elderly people, children, and those who suffer from pre-existing health issues drink enough water, avoid direct sun exposure between peak hours of the day, and refrain from strenuous physical activities.

Schools in certain parts of England have adjusted their outdoor activities owing to the current high temperatures. Some water companies have put in place temporary restrictions for non-essential use of water after prolonged periods of drought. Emergency services have also alerted about the dangers of wildfires in areas of dry vegetation.

Studies by climatologists have shown that heatwaves have occurred more often and with greater intensity in Europe due to rising global temperatures. Climate change driven by human activity has made heatwaves increasingly common, while weather systems determine where and when they occur.

The Met Office has predicted that temperatures will start cooling down from the weekend as cooler air advances into certain parts of the UK, with the probability of showers. This notwithstanding, temperatures are likely to be warmer than the season’s average in certain regions for the next few days.