Temperatures could reach around 36°C on Thursday, the Met Office said in a bulletin issued on 10 August 2026.
The Met Office warned on 10 August 2026 that much of southern and central England will experience a heatwave this week, with temperatures likely to peak at around 36°C on Thursday, according to the bulletin. Kent falls within the affected region, though the bulletin did not name the county directly.
The bulletin did not include a warning level, a county-by-county breakdown, a specified duration beyond “this week”, or public-health or transport guidance.
A heatwave is formally defined by the Met Office as a period of at least three consecutive days on which the maximum temperature meets or exceeds a threshold specific to each county. For Kent, that threshold is 28°C. Should Thursday’s forecast of around 36°C be realised, it would represent one of the hottest days recorded in the county since the UK’s all-time temperature record of 40.3°C was set in July 2022. Historically, Kent’s summer temperatures have averaged in the low-to-mid 20s°C, making a peak in the mid-30s a significant and potentially dangerous departure from the norm.
The Met Office has previously advised the public during periods of extreme heat to stay out of the sun during the hottest part of the day, typically between 11am and 3pm, to keep rooms cool by closing blinds and curtains, and to drink plenty of water throughout the day. People are also encouraged to check on elderly relatives, young children, and those with underlying health conditions, who are considered most at risk during sustained high temperatures. Southeastern rail services and road networks can also be affected by heat-related infrastructure stress, and travellers are advised to check for disruption before setting out.
What This Means for Kent Residents
With Kent falling within the affected region, residents are advised to take the following precautions during the peak heat expected later this week:
Stay hydrated: Drink water regularly throughout the day, even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid excessive alcohol and caffeine, which can contribute to dehydration in hot weather.
Check on vulnerable neighbours: Elderly people, young children, pregnant women, and those with chronic health conditions are particularly at risk during heatwaves. If you have vulnerable neighbours or relatives, consider calling or visiting them to ensure they are coping with the heat.
Be aware of travel disruption: High temperatures can cause rail tracks to buckle and road surfaces to soften, leading to speed restrictions and delays. Residents planning to travel by train or car on Thursday and surrounding days are encouraged to check Southeastern and National Rail for service updates before travelling, and to carry water if driving.
Keep your home cool: Close blinds, curtains, and windows during the day to trap cooler air inside, and open them in the evening once outdoor temperatures begin to fall. Electric fans can help circulate air, though they are less effective when temperatures exceed body temperature.
Avoid strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest hours of the day. If you need to be outside, wear loose, light-coloured clothing, apply high-factor sunscreen, and seek shade wherever possible.
Kent Local News will continue to monitor the Met Office’s forecasts and any formal warning upgrades as the week progresses.