Prime Minister Andy Burnham is set to chair a Cobra emergency committee meeting on Wednesday to address the escalating extreme heat affecting the UK. Temperatures are forecast to climb again, with some regions potentially reaching 38°C.

The government acknowledges the strain this heatwave is placing on firefighters battling wildfires, farmers coping with drought, and NHS staff managing increased patient loads. This week’s heatwave follows the declaration of drought status on more areas across England.

Heatwave and Drought Conditions

  • The Met Office has issued an amber extreme heat warning for Thursday, primarily impacting the Midlands, south-east England, and the surrounding regions.
  • Temperatures could match or exceed the summer’s previous peak of 38°C, recorded in Norfolk on June 26, potentially marking the hottest August day since 2003.
  • Over 71% of England is now officially in drought, affecting approximately 45 million people, with water restrictions imposed on more than 27 million residents.
  • Firefighters have responded to nearly 1,000 wildfires across England and Wales this year, including a persistent blaze in Hampshire’s New Forest.

Government and Expert Responses

The Cobra meeting will include ministers from key departments such as Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, Home Office, and Health, alongside Environment Agency representatives. This is the second Cobra convened this year to tackle heatwave challenges.

No 10 officials emphasized ongoing efforts to safeguard communities, maintain water supplies, and protect the environment. Health Secretary Yvette Cooper highlighted NHS preparations for increased summer pressures akin to winter readiness.

Meanwhile, the UK Health Security Agency has issued amber heat health alerts across England, warning of heightened risks to public health and social care systems through Friday evening.

Climate Change and Future Outlook

Experts link the unusual persistence of high-pressure systems and rising temperatures to climate change, predicting hotter and drier summers ahead. Green Party leader Zack Polanski called the Cobra meeting a necessary but initial step, urging concrete actions to address the climate emergency impacting public services and vulnerable groups.

The current heatwave is expected to ease over the weekend, with cooler temperatures and possible rain arriving in parts of Scotland and Northern Ireland. However, reversing drought conditions will require sustained above-average rainfall over several months.