The United Kingdom is bracing for its fourth heatwave of the summer, with forecasters predicting temperatures that could rival or even surpass those of popular Mediterranean destinations like Ibiza. Weather experts and government agencies alike are sounding the alarm for the coming week, as a swathe of hot air, courtesy of the remnants of Tropical Storm Dexter, prepares to sweep across England and Wales. For millions across the country, the next few days could bring not only record-breaking heat but also new challenges in water conservation and daily life.
According to forecasts compiled by Ventusky and widely reported by the Mirror, nine major UK cities are expected to feel the brunt of the heatwave on Tuesday, August 12, 2025. London, Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Bristol, Swansea, Nottingham, Leeds, and Norwich are all set to see the mercury climb to around 32°C by late afternoon, turning weather maps a fiery red. Other cities, such as Brighton and Newcastle, may be spared the most intense temperatures but will still enjoy a balmy 23°C—pleasant by British standards, if not quite the inferno gripping their neighbors.
The Met Office, the UK’s national weather service, has confirmed that the heatwave will begin in earnest on Sunday, August 10, as the last gasps of Tropical Storm Dexter draw warm air up from the southwest. "From Sunday, temperatures will begin to rise across southern parts of the UK, as the remnants of Tropical Storm Dexter, draws warm air up from the southwest across the UK," the agency stated, as quoted by the Mirror. The agency expects temperatures to exceed 30°C in parts of central, southern, and eastern England on both Monday and Tuesday, with the possibility that the heat could linger into Thursday, August 14, as the hot spell shifts toward the East of England.
Steven Keates, Deputy Chief Meteorologist at the Met Office, added further detail to the forecast, saying, "We're confident that temperatures will increase markedly by the start of next week, reaching the low 30s Celsius in parts of England on Monday and perhaps the mid 30s in a few places on Tuesday." However, he noted the uncertainty surrounding the duration of the heatwave, explaining, "The length of this warm spell is still uncertain, and it is possible that high temperatures could persist further into next week, particularly in the south."
While much of England and Wales will be basking in sunshine, the story is quite different for Scotland. The northern part of the UK is expected to encounter gusty winds and rain as Tropical Storm Dexter makes its presence felt by late Saturday, August 9. Earlier in the week, Storm Floris had already brought wet and windy conditions to Scotland and Northern England, prompting yellow and amber weather warnings. So, while some are reaching for sunscreen and shorts, others are still keeping their umbrellas close at hand.
This latest heatwave follows three earlier bouts of extreme temperatures this summer, making 2025 a year to remember for weather watchers. The official definition of a heatwave in the UK is when an area meets or exceeds the heatwave threshold—ranging from 25°C to 28°C depending on the region—for three consecutive days. With the coming week’s forecast, several regions look set to meet or surpass this mark, potentially setting new records for consecutive hot spells.
Notably, the predicted temperatures for Tuesday, August 12, are expected to make the UK hotter than Ibiza, a detail not lost on forecasters or the public. For many, this is a novelty; for others, it’s a cause for concern, especially as the country grapples with the ongoing effects of climate change and the strain it places on infrastructure and resources.
One area feeling the heat in more ways than one is water conservation. As the thermometer climbs, so does the demand for water—yet parts of the UK are already under hosepipe restrictions. This means residents must find ways to keep their gardens and green spaces alive without relying on mains water.
Dr Mark Lane, a garden designer, broadcaster, and National Trust ambassador, has stepped in to offer timely advice. "Water is a precious resource, and in drought conditions, every drop counts," Dr Lane told the Mirror. He recommends installing water butts to collect rainwater from roofs, greenhouses, sheds, or garages—a simple yet effective measure that can save thousands of liters of water annually. "A standard UK roof can harvest thousands of litres a year—free, untreated and ideal for plants," he explained.
For those looking to go the extra mile, Dr Lane suggests linking multiple water butts together using a special kit, ensuring a more consistent supply. He also advocates for the use of greywater—recycled household water from cooking, washing up, and showering—provided it doesn’t contain harsh chemicals. "Avoid using water that contains harsh detergents, bleach or disinfectants. Let it cool before applying, and stick to non-edible plants unless using eco-friendly, biodegradable soaps," Dr Lane advised. Even simple methods, such as placing a bucket in the shower or using a diverter on a sink drain, can add up to significant savings over time.
When it comes to watering plants, timing and technique matter. Dr Lane recommends watering in the morning to reduce evaporation and targeting the base of each plant rather than the leaves. "A deep soak once or twice a week is more beneficial than a light sprinkle every day—it encourages roots to grow deeper, making plants more resilient," he said. These practical tips are especially crucial as the nation faces the dual challenges of heat and water scarcity.
As the UK readies itself for another week of extraordinary weather, the sense of anticipation is palpable. Will this be the hottest week of the year? Could the heatwave stretch even longer than expected? And, perhaps most pressing for many, will the country’s gardens and green spaces survive the latest onslaught?
One thing is clear: as the climate continues to change, extreme weather events like these are becoming more common—and the need for adaptation, whether through water conservation or better forecasting, has never been more urgent. For now, Britons are advised to stay cool, stay hydrated, and, as Dr Lane puts it, "not waste a drop."
