London heatwave: Tube, rail and bus chaos warning in amber ‘extreme’ heat alert with temperatures up to 35C

An amber “extreme” heat alert has been issued for London as an expected heatwave brings scorching temperatures which will leave the capital sizzling.

It highlighted the risk of disruption to the transport network, including the Tube, rail and buses.

The amber “extreme” heat alert was issued on Friday for the capital and wider South East, as the mercury looks set to reach 34C or more in the coming days.

Heathrow is forecast to feel 35C heat next week, according to forecasts, so flights may also be affected.

The new alert stresses health impact dangers for those vulnerable to extreme heat, but also the potential for heat-related issues for the wider population.

The “extreme” element of the warning cited risks to wider sectors than health such as transport, including rail, and other infrastructure.

It also warns of the health risks from high nighttime temperatures and from potentially a rise in water safety incidents as more people are likely to visit coastal areas, lakes or rivers.

Met Office Deputy Chief Forecaster Greg Wolverson said: “While heatwave criteria will be met for some in the south and southeast of England over the weekend, with temperatures into the low 30s Celsius possible, the warmth will expand and intensify at the start of next week, which, coupled with high temperatures overnight, leads to potential impacts.

“Temperatures will peak around the mid-30s Celsius on Monday and Tuesday. The humidity will also mean this feels close, warmer and more uncomfortable for many. Tropical nights – where the temperature doesn’t drop below 20°C are also likely for some.”

The Met Office have said that parts of the south and south east are likely to meet the heatwave threshold during the weekend - in London, this would be three consecutive days with temperatures at 28C or above.

The national weather service also gives a 40% chance of exceeding the highest ever temperature for June, which is 35.6C set in 1957 and 1976.

Greater London could be as hot as 32C on Friday afternoon, and while Saturday could be cooler, the temperatures are expected to rise again on Sunday and Monday.

Each day between Sunday and Thursday is currently forecast to be at least 30C, with Tuesday being particularly warm and potentially reaching over 34C.

The Amber extreme heat warning applies for much of southern England and southeastern Wales, with impacts to people and infrastructure possible at the start of next week and water safety a particular concern.

A heatwave, centred around southern and eastern England initially, is developing over the weekend and will continue into the start of next week.

The Amber extreme heat warning coincides with what’s expected to be the peak of the heat through Monday and Tuesday, when temperatures are likely to reach 34°C, though there remains a chance of this being exceeded in some spots.

The heat may also trigger thunderstorms in the South East and East Anglia early next week.

Met Office meteorologist Alex Deakin said that such high temperatures are “pretty unusual even for the middle part of June”.

May’s heatwave saw record setting temperatures, with the hottest ever day in May recorded when thermometers hit 35.1 in Kew Gardens.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA)’s amber health alerts mean that the high temperatures are likely to significantly impact health and social care services.

This could also result in a rise in deaths, especially among those aged over 65 or with long-term health conditions.

There were 15 deaths in open water across the UK during May’s hot weather, and the RNLI have issued a warning to those who may want to enter the water during the upcoming heatwave.

Samantha Hughes, the national water safety partner at the RNLI, said: “With warmer weather approaching, it’s important to remember that the water is still cold.

“Entering it unexpectedly can lead to cold water shock, causing a sudden increase in breathing and heart rate, which may trigger panic.

“If you find yourself struggling in the water, remember to Float to Live: tilt your head back so your ears are submerged, relax and control your breathing.

“You may need to gently use your hands to help you stay afloat, and it’s ok if your legs sink – everyone floats differently.”

Temperatures on the continent also look set to soar. It could exceed 40C in parts of France, including Paris, which would shatter the June record of 37.6C set in 1947.