London is facing a weeks-long drought as the July heatwave continues.
Temperatures are predicted to top the 28C heatwave threshold for a 12th consecutive on Thursday.
High temperatures are also expected on Friday before the heat eases over the weekend.
However, it looks a drop in temperatures will be followed by a fourth heatwave of the year next week as high pressure pulls in hot air over the UK.
There is almost no rain predicted in medium-term forecasts for London - which will raise fears of a hosepipe ban in the capital and more wildfires.
Follow the latest updates below.
When is it too hot to work?
19:23 , Tom Place
Over in Italy, Deliveroo drivers are calling for better working conditions as the country tackles highs of 40C in some cities.
Elsewhere in France, teachers’ unions are urging members to exercise their right to strike because of conditions in classrooms.
In the UK, there have been several campaigns to halt working in unreasonable conditions amid the heatwave and to improve working conditions for people like bus drivers.
There is not currently a legally binding maximum working temperature, but a petition has now been launched to start one.
Everything you need to know about working in the heat can be found here:
What temperature is too hot to work under UK law?
When will it rain in London?
18:17 , Tom Place
The capital is facing its longest dry spell in as many as 30 years.
The heat and sunshine have been incessant since June 27, with not a droplet of rain in sight.
The hot and dry weather has proved problematic for the capital, prompting wildfires and hosepipe bans as water companies cling on to resources.
So, it’s unsurprising the question on everyone’s lips is: When is it going to rain?
You can read the full story here:
When will it rain again in London? Capital facing longest dry spell in years
Heatwaves killed 1,000 in London and South East
17:15 , Tom Place
Heatwaves have killed hundreds of Londoners, according to new research.
Experts at Imperial College London, the Met Office, and the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) estimated there were 2,700 excess deaths in England and Wales over the May and June heatwaves.
In the capital, the heatwave death toll was 109 in May and 344 in June, according to the study which stressed that in both months “warming was strongest in the urban heat island of Greater London”.
It comes as temperatures hit a new record high in May.
You can read the full story here:
Shocking death toll from heatwaves in London is revealed
The best places to swim in London
16:15 , Niva Yadav
Temperatures in London might be dropping off this weekend to a pleasant 25C, but that’s not too cold to swim.
There’s plenty of places where you can cool off, take a dip, or have a paddle.
Just remember not to swim in Hampstead Heath’s wildlife ponds...
The best lidos and outdoor swimming pools in London
Heatwave in pictures
16:00 , Niva Yadav
The heatwave looks to be on its way out with pleasant and balmy weather promised for the next few days.
In case you forget what it’s like to survive in sweltering 30C heat, we’ve taken a look at the heatwave in pictures.
Weather for the World Cup final
15:45 , Niva Yadav
The World Cup final will sadly not be featuring Thomas Tuchel’s side as they lost out to Argentina on Wednesday evening.
But for those supporters still heading out to watch the final, the forecast doesn’t look too shabby.
Saturday will be around 25C with cloud according to BBC Weather, while Sunday will drop off to 24C with plenty of sunshine.
The mercury will begin to rise again by Monday into next week.
Can you barbecue in London parks?
15:30 , Niva Yadav
Nothing quite beats a cold beer and a barbecue. But Londoners will be restricted to firing up the grill in their homes as strict rules prevent people from barbecuing in London’s parks.
The London Fire Brigade has issued warnings about barbecuing in open spaces amid drought conditions and has even issued warnings about using barbecues at homes.
Barbecues are banned in virtually all parks - even ones in the borough of Camden where it was previously permitted. There are a handful where you can still cook in designated areas.
Check out where you can cook outdoors below:
Are you allowed to have barbecues in London's parks?
When is it too hot to work?
15:15 , Niva Yadav
Over in Italy, Deliveroo drivers are calling for better working conditions as the country tackles highs of 40C in some cities.
Elsewhere in France, teachers’ unions are urging members to exercise their right to strike because of conditions in classrooms.
In the UK, there have been several campaigns to halt working in unreasonable conditions amid the heatwave and to improve working conditions for people like bus drivers.
There is not currently a legally binding maximum working temperature, but a petition has now been launched to start one.
Everything you need to know about working in the heat can be found here:
What temperature is too hot to work under UK law?
Hotter than 1976
15:00 , Niva Yadav
Britain officially broke the record set in 1976 for the year with the most 30C days on Wednesday.
The Met Office said that there have now been 24 days in 2026 when 30C has been exceeded somewhere in the UK.
That matches the number of 30C-plus days in the summer of 1976.
But which one was worse?
Nick Curtis weighs in on which summer takes the crown:
Think this heatwave is bad? It's got nothing on the summer of 1976
What happens if you use your hosepipe during a ban?
14:45 , Niva Yadav
Hosepipe bans - or Temporary Use Bans as they’re known - are introduced by water companies during periods of high demand or low supply.
It’s little surprise that several water companies, including Affinity Water, Anglian Water, and Southern Water, have announced bans as a third heatwave sweeps over the UK.
If you’re found to be using your hosepipe to water plants or fill up paddling pools, you could be fined up to £1,000.
But how is the rule enforced? Funnily enough, it relies on snitching and snooping neighbours. Fines are really a last resort, with everyone encouraged to play their part to conserve water.
Though it’s worth remembering that if you’re looking to report someone, you should do so via your water company and not the police.
Play your part and ensure you know the rules by checking our interactive map below:
Is there a hosepipe ban in my area? Map shows restrictions closing in on London
Where to find air conditioning in London?
14:30 , Niva Yadav
There’s only so many ice creams and cold showers that a person can take before they seek out the one thing that will really help - air conditioning.
Luckily, you won’t have to look far as The Standard has shared the more than 1,000 cafes, restaurants, bars, and pubs in London with aircon.
You can find it here:
Interactive map shows every nearby bar, restaurant and cafe with air conditioning
Will there be a tropical night?
14:15 , Niva Yadav
A tropical night is one where the temperature does not drop below 20C.
And though there have been several tropical nights in London across the three heatwaves, there is not expected to be another at least until Friday, according to BBC Weather.
But keep your fans at the ready because temperatures will still edge 20C and on some nights, not cool down until well after 2am.
Read the full story here:
What is a tropical night? London swelters in record overnight heat for May
Will there be thunderstorms?
14:00 , Niva Yadav
The electric thunderstorms in June might feel like a distant memory of the past as the sun continues to beat down on London.
The storms battered the capital for more than two hours on June 23, waking thousands from their sleep.
Thunderstorms often come after periods of hot weather when the air becomes unstable.
But will there be more thunderstorms? As it stands, there are no thunderstorms forecast for London meaning more dry spells for the foreseeable. Even the rainy drizzle expected next weekend is not predicted to bring any electric storms with it.
Take a look at the thunderstorms from June:
A cooler weekend
13:45 , Niva Yadav
The weekend is forecast to be a little cooler than previous days.
Following on from a week of 30C highs, this weekend will see temperatures of around 25C in the capital.
This is due to a northerly wind, which is shifting high pressure in the UK. But the pressure will build again by next week, which will see the heat return.
The last four years are the warmest on record for the UK and there is no doubt that 2026 has been a scorcher, especially in London.
Wildfires are 'the new normal for London' warns Fire Brigade
13:30 , Niva Yadav
The London Fire Brigade has warned that wildfires will become the new normal.
It comes after four wildfires broke out across the capital this week.
See the full report here, as The Standard’s Madelaine Dowds reports:
When will it rain in London?
13:15 , Niva Yadav
The capital is facing its longest dry spell in as many as 30 years.
The heat and sunshine have been incessant since June 27, with not a droplet of rain in sight.
The hot and dry weather has proved problematic for the capital, prompting wildfires and hosepipe bans as water companies cling on to resources.
So, it’s unsurprising the question on everyone’s lips is: When is it going to rain?
You can read the full story here: (Spoiler: it’s not until July 25!)
When will it rain again in London? Capital facing longest dry spell in years
This weekend at a glance
12:45 , Niva Yadav
Mercifully, it is going to cool down this weekend (but not by much!), before the mercury begins to climb again next week.
Here’s how your weekend will be looking, according to the Met Office:
Today: Highs of 29C
Friday: Highs of 28C
Saturday: Highs of 25C
Sunday: Highs of 25C
If only we knew...
12:34 , Niva Yadav
Archived articles from the Evening Standard newspaper shed some light on the heatwaves of the past.
Londoners lament about temperatures of 27C, rising to 31C, in 2014, while another article speaks of London “burning” in 32C in 2010.
If only we knew then that temperatures over 30C would become commonplace for London in the summer.
Just weeks ago, the UK recorded its hottest-ever May day when a temperature of 35.1C was recorded in Kew Gardens.
How heatwaves are burning a hole in London's economy?
12:30 , Niva Yadav
Sweltering temperatures are doing more than just creating stifling Tube commutes to work.
Heatwaves in London are damaging productivity and causing workers to avoid the city. What’s more, it will cost £440 million to prepare London for future heatwaves.
Read the full story here:
How heatwaves are burning a hole in London’s economy
London's best sun-kissed pubs and beer gardens
12:15 , Niva Yadav
In classic Londoner fashion, we’ll complain when the sunshine finally packs its bags.
So, before it does, make the most of the capital’s best pubs and beer gardens with our guide to summer drinking.
London's 50 sunniest pubs and beer gardens for summer drinking
South London borough begs for funding to tackle heatwave
12:00 , Niva Yadav
A south London borough has said it urgently needs funding to take action on climate change.
Kingston Council has said it is facing a dual threat of extreme heat and frequent flooding. The Lib Dem-run council said it cannot tackle climate change alone and needs long-term funding to protect its residents.
It would look to retrofit homes, build public transport infrastructure, and support sustainable land use.
Longest spell without rain in south east England, reports Met Office
11:45 , Niva Yadav
Met Office figures suggest south east England has seen its longest unbroken spell without rainfall for nearly 30 years.
An average of zero rainfall was measured across the organisation’s weather stations in the region for 12 days in a row from July 2 to July 13.
This makes it the longest unbroken spell with no rain since a 15-day spell in April 1997.
Another record could be broken as BBC Weather is predicting no rain until July 27.
Where to cool off in the heatwave?
11:30 , Niva Yadav
Many Londoners will be thriving in the sunshine, with temperatures rivalling that of holiday destinations like Lanzarote, but others will be keen to seek refuge from the heat.
The Greater London Authority’s “Cool Spaces” list could be the ticket to finding some solace from the sun.
It highlights spaces where you can go to cool down as well as drinking stations across the capital.
You can find it here:
London's coolest places revealed: Interactive map shows where to escape 40C heat
Heatwaves killed 1,000 in London and South East
11:15 , Niva Yadav
Heatwaves have killed hundreds of Londoners, according to new research.
Experts at Imperial College London, the Met Office, and the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) estimated there were 2,700 excess deaths in England and Wales over the May and June heatwaves.
In the capital, the heatwave death toll was 109 in May and 344 in June, according to the study which stressed that in both months “warming was strongest in the urban heat island of Greater London”.
It comes as temperatures hit a new record high in May.
You can read the full story here:
Shocking death toll from heatwaves in London is revealed
Why more Londoners die in heatwaves than rest of country?
11:01 , Niva Yadav
London's ULEZ zone saves lives during heatwaves? That's according to a top NHS chief, who explains why the capital gets hit especially hard in the heat.
The Standard’s Luke Reevey has the full story here:
Less than 2% chance of rain
10:45 , Niva Yadav
The likelihood of seeing some rain in the capital is less than 2%, according to Sky Weather.
In Westminster and Lambeth, there is a 1% chance of seeing a downpour, while in Clerkenwell, there’s a 2% chance of rain.
BBC Weather is forecasting that there will be no rain until next Sunday at least.
The dry conditions mean more than just dusty picnics. Authorities are warning of wildfire risk and drought conditions as the heat prevails.
Weaver line back up and running
10:30 , Niva Yadav
The Weaver line is back up and running after being partially suspended since Sunday night.
This was after a major fire broke out in Walthamstow near Wood Street, destroying a row of gardens and a home on Vallentin Road.
The line is still subject to minor delays.
When will the heatwave end?
10:15 , Niva Yadav
Temperatures have exceeded 28C for 10 consecutive days since July 5.
The third heatwave has seen the mercury rice to 34C in London, prompting concerns of wildfires and draught conditions.
With the novelty of a hazy, warm summer finally wearing off, you’d be forgiven for wondering when the heatwave will end.
Thankfully, temperatures are set to drop below 28C this weekend, with the mercury dropping off to around 24C by Tuesday, according to the Met Office.
But BBC Weather is predicting that the heat will return by Wednesday, with highs of 29C on Thursday.
Is there a hosepipe ban in my area?
10:00 , Niva Yadav
Millions of households across the UK have been hit with hosepipe bans as a third heatwave takes hold of the capital.
Drought conditions have raised concerns of wildfires as water companies continue to keep a watchful eye on resources.
Thames Water has yet to issue a ban, but Affinity Water - which covers the boroughs of Harrow, Hillingdon, Barnet, Brent, and Ealing - has issued a ban.
You can check The Standard’s interactive map to see if there’s a ban in place in your area.
Is there a hosepipe ban in my area? Map shows restrictions closing in on London
How high is the risk of a blaze in your borough?
09:45 , Niva Yadav
As the capital frazzles in its third heatwave of the year, Londoners are asking themselves whether their borough could be at risk of wildfire.
It comes as several fires have swept across the capital in the dry weather.
Not all boroughs are equal and some boroughs are at significant more risk than others.
Havering in the east of London is said to be at most risk of wildfire while Hounslow in west London takes second place.
Outer London boroughs are said to be at higher risk than their inner London counterparts.
You can read the full story here:
Wildfire threat to London: How high is the risk of blazes igniting in your borough?
How 30C days quadrupled in London
09:30 , Niva Yadav
There was once a time when 30C weather was reserved for the occasional day in August or for countries like Spain and Greece.
But now, days with temperatures above 30C are becoming increasingly common. In fact, there have now been 24 days in 2026 when 30C was exceeded in the capital or somewhere else in the UK; seven in May, eight in June and nine in July.
This is four times what was once the case, according to a new report.
You can read the full story here:
Heatwave London: How 30C days quadrupled in the capital fuelled by climate change
Climate activists protest in London after 2,700 die in heatwaves
09:15 , Niva Yadav
Climate activists from campaign group Fossil Free marched on Westminster on Tuesday this week.
They called for action to be taken after 2,700 people have reportedly died from heat-related caused during the two heatwave in May and June.
In a social media post, the group said: “The writing is on the wall. Our world is on fire.”
Fires in Wales, Walthamstow, Stratford, Wood Green…
— Fossil Free London (@fossilfreeLDN) July 14, 2026
And 2,700 predicted dead in England and Wales in the last two heatwaves alone.
The writing is on the wall.
Our world is on fire.
Organise with us against fossil fuels. #StopRosebank #ShutDownShell pic.twitter.com/K0meWRVj2g
'Create firebreaks around gardens to protect homes' Londoners told
09:00 , Niva Yadav
Londoners are being urged to create firebreaks around their gardens in the face of an “extreme” threat of wildfires.
Fire chiefs issued the guidance after the capital was hit with several large blazes this week.
Advice includes trimming grass, clearing 2-3m of space around all sides of your home, cutting back trees and shrubs, clearing dead leaves, and keeping gardens watered (which could prove tricky with hosepipe bans now closing in on London!).
You can read the full story here:
Create firebreaks around gardens to protect homes from wildfires, Londoners told
ICYMI: All the London wildfires
08:45 , Niva Yadav
London has been hit with a series of wildfires as the sun continues to shine down on the capital.
The first on July 10 was in Stratford. The wildfire, which involved trees and shrubbery beside the tracks prompted the evacuation of around 1,400 passengers.
Just two days later, a large embankment wildfire broke out line-side in Walthamstow, with 125 firefighters called out to tackle the blaze. Some 30 properties were affected, with one home entirely burned to the ground. The Weaver line on the Overground remains partially suspended.
East Croydon station has seen two trackside fires on Monday and Tuesday, causing heavy disruption and cancellations. The second fire broke out just 24 hours after the first in the same area.
Fire chiefs continue to warn of the dangers of wildfires as the risk has now been raised to “extreme” following a spike in emergency calls.
Why are there so many trackside fires in London?
08:30 , Niva Yadav
Several of London’s wildfires this month have happened right by the train tracks, wreaking havoc across the capital’s transport system.
Network Rail has said this is because sparks generated by braking trains risk igniting dry vegetation along railways.
In response, fire chiefs are urging Londoners to create fire breaks in their gardens and to cut back trees and shrubbery, particularly for properties close to railway lines.
You can read the full story here:
Why so many railway trackside fires are happening in London
London's parks turn to tinder boxes
08:15 , Niva Yadav
London’s parks have dried up in the hot weather.
Aerial photos show dried grass on football pitches, golf clubs, and in parks across the capital as the London Fire Brigade warns of the ‘extreme’ risk of wildfire.
The brigade is urging landowners and local councils to ensure they are managing land properly and to avoid having barbecues in open spaces.
When is it going to rain again?
07:51 , Niva Yadav
The capital has not seen a downpour for more than two weeks, stretching back to June 27.
Hot weather has sparked wildfires as gardens and parks turn into tinder boxes, commuters continue to sweat on the Underground, and the novelty of a cold Aperol Spritz has just about worn off.
So, the question on everyone’s lips is when is it going to rain again?
Though the Met Office only publishes a seven-day forecast, BBC Weather says that the next rain won’t be until July 25.
Even still, that isn’t guaranteed with around a 30% of likelihood of precipitation.
You can read the full story here:
When will it rain again in London? Capital facing longest dry spell in years
How 30C days more than quadrupled in the capital fuelled by climate change
Wednesday 15 July 2026 18:30 , Alastair Lockhart
Alarming changes to London’s weather were laid bare by a new report detailing how temperatures have soared.
The number of days over 30C and nights over 18C has more than quadrupled in London for the most recent decade, 2016-2025, compared to 1961-1990, according to the Met Office study.
Its annual “State of the UK Climate” report for 2025 highlighted how temperatures are spiralling in the capital at an increasingly worrying rate, with record high readings this year.
It also stressed that the “urban heat island” effect in London meant that the city was struggling to cool down and suffering more and more tropical nights, where temperatures do not dip below 20C.
When will it rain again in London? Capital facing longest dry spell in years
Wednesday 15 July 2026 18:15 , Alastair Lockhart
London has basked in ten days of heatwave conditions with daily temperature highs above 28C since Sunday, July 5.
The third heatwave since May has seen the thermometer reach 34C in the capital and continued a long spell of dry weather stretching back 16 days to June 27.
The hot and dry weather has fuelled the spread of two fires in London in recent days that have caused major disruption to the capital.
London Fire Brigade has warned of an “extreme” risk of wildfires in the capital, as the city basks in what looks like another week of warm sunshine.
Extreme weather the "new normal", says Met Office
Wednesday 15 July 2026 17:40 , Tom Place
Extreme weather is becoming the "new normal", according to a Met Office report on the UK's climate.
The report states that the hottest day of the year in the south of England is now typically 4.5C warmer than it was between 1961 and 1990, and confirms that 2025 was the warmest year on record since data began to be collected in 1884.
Homes, schools, hospitals, and transport networks are struggling to cope with this summer’s heatwaves, exposing how unprepared the UK is for climate change.
Mike Kendon, Met Office climate information scientist, said: "We are right now living in a time of historic and unprecedented change, and in terms of temperature, on annual, seasonal, monthly and daily timescales, this evidence shows the climate of the 20th Century has now gone."
What's the weather looking like for tonight's football?
Wednesday 15 July 2026 17:39 , Alastair Lockhart
England kick off in Atlanta against Argentina at 8pm tonight in the second World Cup semi-final.
Back home, the weather is looking mostly dry and sunny for Three Lions fans watching it at home or at the pub.
See the full forecast from the Met Office below:
Are you heading out to watch the game later?
— Met Office (@metoffice) July 15, 2026
It is staying dry and warm for most places
A little cooler along eastern coasts with cloud building in pic.twitter.com/XPFh1VtLBh
Thursday weather forecast
Wednesday 15 July 2026 17:15 , Alastair Lockhart
The heatwave is forecast to continue tomorrow as temperatures remain high.
The Met Office has forecast a high of 29C for Thursday following similar temperatures today.
Thursday in London will begin with clear spells before seeing cloud in the early to mid-afternoon.
The heat is expected to peak around then and temperatures are set to remain above at least 21C until the end of the day.
Heatwave officially stretches to eleventh day
Wednesday 15 July 2026 15:24 , Tom Place
A provisional temperature of 28.3C has been recorded in London this afternoon,
That makes it eleven straight days of heatwave conditions in the capital.
The Met Office is currently forecasting similar temperatures on both Thursday and Friday, before highs in the mid-20s over the weekend.
South Western Railway affected by heatwave
Wednesday 15 July 2026 14:33 , Tom Place
South Western Railway have confirmed that some service on their network will be affected by the hot weather today.
Between 11am and 5pm, services from Portsmouth to London Waterloo via Guildford will be diverted via Cobham & Stoke D’Abernon.
Customers travelling to Woking are advised to change at Guildford
Seven regions issued with yellow alerts this week
Wednesday 15 July 2026 13:35 , Tom Place
Seven English regions have been issued with yellow alerts between Tuesday and Friday by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) this week as the Met Office forecasts temperature peaks of 33C in south-central regions.
The North West, South West, South East, East Midlands, West Midlands, East of England and London have all been given yellow heat-health alerts by the UKHSA, with the North East and Yorkshire and the Humber regions spared.
A yellow weather alert for heat is the least severe of the alerts issued by the Met Office (yellow, amber, red).
The alert mainly advises people to ‘be aware’ and to plan ahead, carrying a risk score of 10, which means medium impact low likelihood.
This means if severe weather does occur it could cause significant disruption but there is a low probability that it will actually occur.
Nevertheless, people are urged to stay hydrated, to keep an eye on vulnerable friends and family members and to stay out of the direct sun wherever possible.
National Rail warn that heatwave could affect travel this week
Wednesday 15 July 2026 12:47 , Tom Place
National Rail is warning that rail services across the country may be affected this week by the hot weather,
With temperatures in some areas forecast in the low 30's, passengers are being advised to check their entire journeys before they travel.
East Midlands Railway, ScotRail and South Western Railway are all issuing official advice to passengers for both Thursday and Friday.
Sadiq Khan issues Londoners shock wildfire warning
Wednesday 15 July 2026 12:19 , Tom Place
Sir Sadiq Khan has issued a stark call for Londoners to create firebreaks around their home in the face of an “extreme” risk of wildfires.
The London Mayor gave the warning after a major blaze in Walthamstow, east London, swept through around 30 gardens and damaged properties.
The Mayor raised the alarm as London faces around a month with no rain, with the next precipitation not due for around ten days.
The freak hot weather is taking its toll, with 1,000 people in London and the wider South East estimated to have been killed by the May and June heatwaves.
You can read the full story here:
Sadiq Khan issues shock wildfire alert as London faces 'extreme' risk
Eleven straight days of heatwave conditions possible this afternoon
Wednesday 15 July 2026 12:00 , Tom Place
London is officially saw heatwave conditions stretch into tenth straight day on Tuesday, with a high of 29.9C recorded at Heathrow.
A heatwave in London is defined as at least three straight days with temperatures of at least 28C.
It appears likely that an eleventh straight day will be confirmed later today, with the Met Office forecasting highs of around 29C in the capital on Wednesday.
As of 11am, thermometers had already hit 25.2C.
How to find London restaurants and bars with aircon during the heatwave
Wednesday 15 July 2026 11:28 , Tom Place
More than 1,000 restaurants, pubs, cafes and bars across London have aircon - and now there is a handy interactive map that can show you where your nearest is.
Where’s Cool maps out each venue with air conditioning across England and Wales.
The site gets its data from the public MHCLG Energy Performance Certificate (EPC), as well as relying on helpful users to confirm whether there is AC somewhere or not.
You can see the interactive map here:
How to find London restaurants and bars with air conditioning during the heatwave
Seven Britons among those killed in wildfires in Spain
Wednesday 15 July 2026 10:47 , Megan Howe
Seven Britons are among those killed in deadly wildfires in southern Spain, authorities have said.
Twelve of the 13 victims were identified as foreign nationals after post-mortem examinations were held.
In a statement, officials said seven of the victims were from the United Kingdom, three from Belgium, one from France and another from the United States, with the remaining victim a Spanish citizen. Eight of the victims were women and five were men.
Seven Brits confirmed among those killed in Spain wildfires
Disruption on the Weaver line continues due to line-side fire
Wednesday 15 July 2026 08:11 , Megan Howe
There will be no service between Walthamstow Central and Chingford on the Weaver line until Thursday after a line-side fire near Wood Street.
Severe delays are expected on the rest of the line.
Passengers are advised to use London Underground and London Buses to complete their journey.
Around 125 firefighters battled the major blaze in Walthamstow after a railway embankment caught fire on Sunday evening.
At its height, the fire could be seen raging metres from railway lines as it spread to homes and around 30 gardens.
Residents were advised to avoid the area around Vallentin Road entirely and keep their windows and doors closed, as crews from London Fire Brigade worked to tackle the blaze.
Heatwave London: How 30C days more than quadrupled in the capital fuelled by climate change
Wednesday 15 July 2026 07:42 , Megan Howe
Alarming changes to London’s weather were laid bare by a new report detailing how temperatures have soared.
The number of days over 30C and nights over 18C has more than quadrupled in London for the most recent decade, 2016-2025, compared to 1961-1990, according to the Met Office study.
Its annual “State of the UK Climate” report for 2025 highlighted how temperatures are spiralling in the capital at an increasingly worrying rate, with record high readings this year.
Read more:
Heatwave London: How 30C days quadrupled in the capital fuelled by climate change
Seven regions issued with yellow alerts this week
Wednesday 15 July 2026 07:23 , Megan Howe
Seven English regions have been issued with yellow alerts between Tuesday and Friday by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) this week as the Met Office forecasts temperature peaks of 33C in south-central regions.
The North West, South West, South East, East Midlands, West Midlands, East of England and London have all been given yellow heat-health alerts by the UKHSA, with the North East and Yorkshire and the Humber regions spared.
What is a yellow weather alert?
A yellow weather alert for heat is the least severe of the alerts issued by the Met Office (yellow, amber, red).
The alert mainly advises people to ‘be aware’ and to plan ahead, carrying a risk score of 10, which means medium impact low likelihood.
This means if severe weather does occur it could cause significant disruption but there is a low probability that it will actually occur.
Nevertheless, people are urged to stay hydrated, to keep an eye on vulnerable friends and family members and to stay out of the direct sun wherever possible.
Map: Where can I escape the heat?
Wednesday 15 July 2026 07:20 , Megan Howe
Take a look at The Standard’s interactive map which details all the ‘cool spaces’ open to Londoners.
The piece, originally published last week, when the capital saw scorching temperatures of up to 35C, may still be useful for anyone who needs a break away from the heat.
London's coolest places revealed: Interactive map shows where to escape 40C heat
Temperatures are set to ease at the latter end of this week, Met Office says
Wednesday 15 July 2026 06:58 , Megan Howe
It’s good news for everyone currently struggling in the hot weather, as temperatures are set to cool towards the latter end of the week, forecasters say.
London will continue to swelter in heatwave-like conditions, with highs of 29-30C expected until Wednesday, when temperatures are set to peak.
“It’s going to be a sunny and warm week for the vast majority of the UK as high pressure remains in charge of our weather regime and is leading to clearer skies for many and lack of rainfall for many as well,” Met Office forecaster Stephen Dixon said.
However, temperatures are set to ease by the second half of the week.
He added: “What we can say as we get towards the weekend, we can see a slight dip in the temperatures to come.
“So rather than the low 30s that we’ve seen through much of the week, by Saturday we’re looking at peak temperatures possibly in the mid-to-high 20s for many.
“That’s largely because although high pressure is still in charge, we’re seeing more of a northerly influence, which is just helping to drop temperature slightly; still widely above average, and still warm and pleasant for many.
“But not the kind of peak figures that we’ll see through much this week and that we saw through last week as well.”
Wildfires are blazing across 19 locations in England and Wales
Wednesday 15 July 2026 06:48 , Megan Howe
Firefighters are currently dealing with 19 active wildfire incidents, including moorland and agricultural fires, the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has said.
The NFCC said that latest assessments show “severe wildfire risk” remains across large parts of England and Wales, with some locations continuing to have “extreme risk”.
Major incident were declared for wildfires in North Wales and in Glossop, Derbyshire in the Peak District.
In recent days, London Fire Brigade has been dealing with a number of trackside fires, at Stratford, Walthamstow and East Croydon, which has caused major travel disruption.
Fire crews have also been called to garden fires, as the capital endures its third heatwave.
London’s last BBQ-friendly parks announce bans
Tuesday 14 July 2026 21:53 , Tom Place
London’s last barbecue-friendly parks have announced bans amid the “extreme” wildfire threat.
Camden Council, which is the only council to permit barbecuing in its parks in London, has made the decision to “close its barbecue season” this year.
This will mean barbecues are no longer permitted at the last remaining outdoor grilling spots Cantelowes Gardens, Russell Square and Lincoln’s Inn Fields.
All three locations were managed and operated by Camden Council, though it is not yet clear if the ban is permanent or temporary.
Barbecues were previously suspended in Waterlow Park after crowds became too large.
Temperatures exceeded 30C for 26 days in 2026, Met Office says
Tuesday 14 July 2026 20:52 , Tom Place
Temperatures in the UK on Monday peaked at 30.1C in Hurn in Dorset, the Met Office said, making it the ninth day in a row when 30C has been exceeded somewhere in the country.
June’s heatwave saw temperatures peak above 30C seven days in a row.
There have now been 24 days in 2026 – consecutive and non-consecutive – when 30C has been exceeded somewhere in the UK: seven in May, eight in June and nine in July.
This equals the number of 30C-plus days in 1976.
There were 18 consecutive days in 1976 when temperatures exceeded 30C, from June 22 to July 9, the Met Office added.
Highs of 29.9C today
Tuesday 14 July 2026 19:58 , Tom Place
It looks like London narrowly missed another 30C day today - the Met Office have provisionally recorded a high of 29.9C in the capital.
Londoners 'scramble for outdoor swimming pool places'
Tuesday 14 July 2026 19:36 , Tom Place
Londoners are scrambling for outdoor swimming spaces amid the ongoing heatwave.
With a 75% drop in outdoor swimming spots since 1950, online booking systems for venues sell out in minutes.
Security guards are even being deployed to manage crowds and stop illegal dipping in wildlife habitats, The New York Times reported.
Harry Smith, the director of the newly-opened Sea Lanes in Canary Wharf, said they had been surprised by the demand.
What is the weather forecast for London on Wednesday?
Tuesday 14 July 2026 19:09 , Tom Place
Temperatures are expected to remain high on Tuesday, with highs of 28C in the capital according to the Met Office.
After a fairly cloudy start, temperatures seem set increase as the day goes on, with a gentle breeze expected.
Temperatures near 30C
Tuesday 14 July 2026 17:05 , Tom Place
The Met Office have recorded a provisional temperature of 29.6C in the capital this afternoon.
The national forecaster is predicting at least three more days of heatwave conditions, with scorching temperatures showing little sign of abating.
Ten straight days of heatwave conditions
Tuesday 14 July 2026 16:27 , Tom Place
London is officially in a tenth straight day of heatwave conditions.
A heatwave in London is defined as at least three straight days with temperatures of at least 28C.
The capital hit that mark by 3pm today, when a temperature of 28.1C was reached at Heathrow.
Londoners urged to make firebreaks around their gardens
Tuesday 14 July 2026 15:25 , Tom Place
Fire chiefs have urged Londoners to create firebreaks around their gardens in the face of an “extreme” threat of wildfires.
Fire chiefs issued the guidance after large blazes erupted over the weekend including in Walthamstow and Stratford.
London Fire Brigade Assistant Commissioner Tom Goodall told The Standard: “As these very warm and dry conditions continue, we encourage all landowners, including households, to take any precautionary measures they can to protect properties in the event of a fire.
“Residents can also help minimise damage by keeping grass cut low and cutting back trees and shrubbery, particularly around the edges.
“Garden sheds should be positioned away from your home and other flammable materials like fencing.”
You can read the full story here:
Create firebreaks around gardens to protect homes from wildfires, Londoners told
Heatwave set to continue for much of this week
Tuesday 14 July 2026 14:47 , Tom Place
The Met Office has said that the heatwave is set to continue for much of the UK this week.
Temperatures could peak at possible highs of 33C in some parts of southern-central England on Wednesday.
Temperatures are set to ease by the second half of the week, with peak temperatures dipping to the mid to high-20s for many by Saturday, the Met Office said.
Where else have wildfires broken out?
Tuesday 14 July 2026 14:12 , Alastair Lockhart
As well as the wildfires which affected London, a number of serious fires have broken out across the UK in recent days.
On Sunday, major incidents were declared in north Wales and Derbyshire. Firefighters were still tackling the flames at both locations today.
There were also wildfires over the weekend in Hampshire, Durham, Devon, Somerset and Sussex.
LFB issues 'extreme' wildfires warning
Tuesday 14 July 2026 13:43 , Alastair Lockhart
The London Fire Brigade has issued a warning to Londoners over wildfires amid the ongoing hot weather.
Firefighters have shared guidance on how to prevent and deal with fires on grass, barbecues and elsewhere.
Read more of the LFB’s advice to Londoners below.
An 'extreme' risk of wildfires is still in place for London⚠️
— London Fire Brigade (@LondonFire) July 14, 2026
Help prevent wildfires by avoiding using disposable BBQs in parks & open spaces, taking rubbish home with you if no bins are available and disposing of cigarettes carefully.https://t.co/q1dfEfAqXd pic.twitter.com/9q95zK49iK
Summer 2026 matches 1976 for days above 30C
Tuesday 14 July 2026 13:41 , Megan Howe
The UK has had as many 30C days in 2026 as in the infamous year of 1976, as the country experiences its third heatwave of the summer, the Met Office said.
Temperatures on Monday peaked at 30.1C in Hurn in Dorset, making it the ninth day in a row when 30C has been exceeded somewhere in the country.
June’s heatwave saw temperatures peak above 30C seven days in a row.
There have now been 24 days in 2026 – consecutive and non-consecutive – when 30C has been exceeded somewhere in the UK: seven in May, eight in June and nine in July.
That equals the number of 30C-plus days in 1976, which lingers in the UK’s memory for its heatwave and drought conditions that forced people to use standpipes in the street, hit crops and parched landscapes.
London’s last BBQ-friendly parks announce bans
Tuesday 14 July 2026 13:15 , Alastair Lockhart
London’s last barbecue-friendly parks have announced bans amid the “extreme” wildfire threat.
Camden Council, which is the only council to permit barbecuing in its parks in London, has made the decision to “close its barbecue season” this year.
This will mean barbecues are no longer permitted at the last remaining outdoor grilling spots Cantelowes Gardens, Russell Square and Lincoln’s Inn Fields.
All three locations were managed and operated by Camden Council, though it is not yet clear if the ban is permanent or temporary.
Barbecues were previously suspended in Waterlow Park after crowds became too large.
What's the forecast for Tuesday afternoon?
Tuesday 14 July 2026 12:50 , Alastair Lockhart
The Met Office has forecast a high of 30C in some parts of London for today.
This morning’s cloudy weather will have largely cleared by 2pm, giving way to clearer spells of sunshine.
Temperatures will remain at at least 29C from then until 7pm.
Londoners are in for another hot evening, with temperatures not falling below 18C overnight.
Aerial footage of land scorched in blaze
Tuesday 14 July 2026 12:21 , Megan Howe
Shocking video footage shows the extent of damage caused to grassland following a blaze in Rainham.
The fire was believed to have been caused accidentally due to the unsafe disposal of a cigarette.
It comes as LFB has urged people to take extra care during the hot weather as there is an ‘extreme’ risk of wildfires.
Firefighters are urging the public to stop the unsafe disposal of waste, cigarettes, and barbecues, which are causing a severe surge in emergency calls.
Berwick Pond Road
— YEDIS DRONE SHOTS (@yedisdroneshots) July 13, 2026
Twelve fire engines and around 80 firefighters responded to a fire on Berwick Pond Road, Rainham
The fire involved a brick outbuilding at a commercial property
The outbuilding failed structurally due to the fire, and crews worked to safely cool a number of… pic.twitter.com/VxfIcYb3JG
When will this heatwave end?
Tuesday 14 July 2026 10:25 , Megan Howe
Met Office forecasts suggest the period of hot and dry weather is expected to continue this week, with no clear end in sight for the current heatwave.
Tom Crabtree, deputy chief forecaster, said last week: “Many people will understandably want to know how long the current heatwave is likely to last. While temperatures are expected to ease across south-east England through the weekend and into next week, it won't be a straightforward end to the warm weather.
“High pressure is expected to remain in charge through much of next week, but it will gradually migrate northwards. This means that an easterly wind will become established in the South, and the focus for the hottest conditions will migrate towards the South West.
“As a result, some places that have seen the highest temperatures during recent weeks will begin to cool. It will however, remain very warm – especially in the South West – and heatwave thresholds may continue to be met in places.”
Temperatures exceeded 30C for 26 days in 2026, Met Office says
Tuesday 14 July 2026 10:00 , Megan Howe
Temperatures in the UK on Monday peaked at 30.1C in Hurn in Dorset, the Met Office said, making it the ninth day in a row when 30C has been exceeded somewhere in the country.
June’s heatwave saw temperatures peak above 30C seven days in a row.
There have now been 24 days in 2026 – consecutive and non-consecutive – when 30C has been exceeded somewhere in the UK: seven in May, eight in June and nine in July.
This equals the number of 30C-plus days in 1976.
There were 18 consecutive days in 1976 when temperatures exceeded 30C, from June 22 to July 9, the Met Office added.
Londoners 'scramble for outdoor swimming pool places'
Tuesday 14 July 2026 09:34 , Megan Howe
Londoners are scrambling for outdoor swimming spaces amid the ongoing heatwave.
With a 75% drop in outdoor swimming spots since 1950, online booking systems for venues sell out in minutes.
Security guards are even being deployed to manage crowds and stop illegal dipping in wildlife habitats, The New York Times reported.
Harry Smith, the director of the newly-opened Sea Lanes in Canary Wharf, said they had been surprised by the demand.
No significant rain forecast for at least a week
Tuesday 14 July 2026 08:43 , Megan Howe
Heatwave conditions are set to continue across much of the UK for the next week, with highs in London of around 29 to 30C.
Some parts of the country have gone almost a month without any rain, while London has not seen any rainfall since the latter end of June.
Wisley in Surrey has gone 26 consecutive days without any rainfall.
Weather observation gauges recorded zero millimetres of rainfall in London throughout early and mid-July.
More than eight million households, including some in London, are now living under a hosepipe ban as the UK tries to conserve water.
In Pictures: Dry and yellow grass engulfs London's parks
Tuesday 14 July 2026 08:07 , Megan Howe
London’s parks and green spaces are looking a little parched this week as the capital continues to face a prolonged period of dry and hot weather.
Aerial photos show children playing on yellowed football pitches in Hackney, while others show Londoners sitting on dried grass in Greenwich.
It comes as London faces an "extreme" risk from wildfires due to the dried-out land, which can ignite easily.
Heatwave and World Cup shape spending figures for June
Tuesday 14 July 2026 07:40 , Megan Howe
Online sales soared in June as consumers shopped from home to beat the heat, with electric fans and paddling pools proving best sellers.
Total retail sales across the UK were up 1.9% year on year in June, boosted significantly by a 5.1% increase in online sales of products other than food, according to the British Retail Consortium (BRC)-KPMG data.
In-store non-food sales were 1.1% down year on year – below the 12-month average growth of 0.1% – showing just how much bricks and mortar retailers suffered the effects of the heatwave.
BRC chief executive Helen Dickinson said: “Retail sales maintained momentum despite June’s heatwave.
“While in-store sales were stifled by soaring temperatures, the proportion of sales online was the highest of 2026, bolstered by well-timed promotions.
“Electric fans and paddling pools performed well, as people looked to cool off, while the lure of the sunshine meant that gaming and big ticket sales struggled.”
Walthamstow fire continues to inflict travel misery
Tuesday 14 July 2026 07:00 , Megan Howe
There is currently no service between Hackney Downs and Chingford on the Weaver Line while TfL engineers conduct urgent repairs to the track following a line side fire near Wood Street.
Severe delays are expected between Hackney Towns and Enfield Town.
Passengers are advised to seek alternative routes.
Disruption will continue until Thursday, July 16.
Londoners urged to make firebreaks around their gardens
Tuesday 14 July 2026 06:56 , Megan Howe
Fire chiefs have urged Londoners to create firebreaks around their gardens in the face of an “extreme” threat of wildfires.
Fire chiefs issued the guidance after large blazes erupted over the weekend including in Walthamstow and Stratford.
London Fire Brigade Assistant Commissioner Tom Goodall told The Standard: “As these very warm and dry conditions continue, we encourage all landowners, including households, to take any precautionary measures they can to protect properties in the event of a fire.
“Residents can also help minimise damage by keeping grass cut low and cutting back trees and shrubbery, particularly around the edges.
“Garden sheds should be positioned away from your home and other flammable materials like fencing.”
Read more via the link below.
Create firebreaks around gardens to protect homes from wildfires, Londoners told
Met Office predicts another hot day for southern England
Tuesday 14 July 2026 06:51 , Megan Howe
Tuesday may start cloudy but it won't take long for the sunshine to come out ☀️
— Met Office (@metoffice) July 13, 2026
It will be the 10th consecutive day of 30C or higher somewhere in the UK 🌡️
Check the 4cast to see how hot it will be 👇 pic.twitter.com/H5DHvQG96i
What is the weather forecast for London today?
Tuesday 14 July 2026 06:45 , Megan Howe
Temperatures are expected to remain high today following a week of hot weather, with highs of 30C in the capital according to the Met Office.
But BBC weather is forecasting highs of 32C in southern England.
Despite a cloudy start, temperatures will increase as the day goes on, with a gentle breeze expected.
The UV for the capital is ‘very high’ today and Londoners are advised to avoid direct sunlight from 11am to 3pm.
Shirts, sunscreen and hats are essential.
Good morning
Tuesday 14 July 2026 06:39 , Megan Howe
Welcome to our live blog covering the ongoing heatwave that is gripping London and the rest of the country.
Stay tuned as we bring you the latest weather-related updates.
