Temperatures are set to climb through the weekend before rising more sharply into the middle of next week, with the Met Office saying heatwave conditions are likely to return to many parts of the UK.
The Met Office issued a forecast bulletin on 7 August 2026 warning that another heatwave is on the way. Temperatures will build gradually through the weekend, then rise more sharply by midweek — heatwave conditions likely across much of the UK.
According to the Met Office bulletin, parts of England could see highs of 35–36°C by the middle of next week, with temperatures in the mid-to-high 20s expected across much of the country from early in the week. The southeast of England, including Kent, is among the regions most likely to experience the highest temperatures during any summer heatwave episode. Kent was not named individually in the bulletin, which refers broadly to “many parts of the UK”, but the county’s position in the southeast places it firmly within the areas forecast to be most affected.
The forecast follows a pattern of increasingly frequent summer heat events across the UK. Forecasters say the build-up will be gradual at first, with the most intense heat arriving mid-week. Residents are advised to monitor Met Office updates as the situation develops, since temperature forecasts at this range can shift as the event draws closer.
What This Means for Kent Residents
Kent, as part of the southeast of England, is typically one of the warmest regions during UK heatwave events, and this episode is expected to be no different. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) issues Heat Health Alerts during periods of extreme heat, and residents should check whether a Level 3 or Level 4 alert is in force for the South East region as next week approaches. Local authorities in Kent advise residents to keep homes cool by closing blinds and windows during the hottest part of the day, stay hydrated, and check on elderly or vulnerable neighbours. Those with underlying health conditions, young children, and older people are considered most at risk during sustained high temperatures. Kent County Council and local district councils are expected to publish updated guidance ahead of the peak heat period.