**Met Office Issues Heatwave Alert Across Wales with Temperatures Set to Soar to 33°C**
Wales is set to swelter under an intense heatwave this weekend, with the Met Office forecasting temperatures that could reach a scorching 33°C in several regions. Weather experts are urging the public to brace for a prolonged and widespread spell of hot weather, which is expected to surpass previous hot spells observed earlier in the summer.
Chief meteorologist Jason Kelly from the Met Office outlined that a system of high pressure originating from the Atlantic will drive temperatures upward in the coming days. He noted that the mercury is set to rise “day on day,” culminating in Saturday being identified as the peak of this upcoming heat event. According to current weather models, Friday afternoon will already see locations such as Monmouth experiencing temperatures of up to 33°C, while areas including Newport, Wrexham, Welshpool, Newtown, Cardiff, and Chepstow could each record highs of 31°C.
However, it is Saturday afternoon when the true extent of the heatwave will be felt, with places like Abergavenny, Builth Wells, Newtown, Wrexham, Hay-on-Wye, and Monmouth all expected to bask in extreme heat. In addition, many other Welsh towns could see the mercury exceed the 30°C mark, a rare occurrence for such a broad swath of the country.
Mr Kelly added that this particular spell of hot weather is likely to last longer and affect a wider geographical area of the UK than previous periods of warmth this year. He explained, “Friday will see some areas reaching or exceeding 30°C for the first time this week, and by Saturday, much of both Wales and England will experience the highest temperatures so far this summer. An important factor to note is that this heatwave is forecast to last several days and reach further north and west than any we have seen so far in 2025.”
Beyond high temperatures, there are additional concerns being highlighted for residents. Public health advice has been reiterated as pollen and ultraviolet (UV) levels are predicted to become “very high” in numerous places. This raises the risk of heat-related health issues for vulnerable groups, as well as the potential for sunburn and related complications among the wider population. The Met Office has encouraged everyone to monitor regular forecasts and remain vigilant as the situation evolves.
The expected heatwave has also prompted warnings from Welsh Water, which anticipates a sharp spike in demand for water supplies — an estimated 20% increase over the weekend, during what has now become the third notable heatwave of the summer. In response, the water authority is calling on households and businesses to use water responsibly and to avoid unnecessary wastage. They stress the importance of safeguarding resources during this prolonged spell of hot, dry weather.
Aside from the inconvenience and discomfort that heatwaves can bring, this stretch of extreme heat could also have implications for infrastructure, agriculture, and everyday life across Wales. Communities are being encouraged to help neighbours who may be particularly vulnerable to heat, such as the elderly and those with existing health conditions.
While some may welcome the sunshine, meteorologists caution that such intense and unexpected increases in temperature can put significant strain on individuals, public services, and the environment. Authorities recommend limiting time outdoors during the hottest parts of the day, staying hydrated, and taking precautions to keep cool wherever possible.
The Met Office will continue to provide frequent updates as the situation develops, with both local and national agencies on alert. Observers suggest that, given current models, the current episode could become one of the most impactful hot spells Wales has seen in recent years.
Stay tuned to official forecasts and heed advice to ensure safety during what is anticipated to be a particularly intense period of summer weather across the nation.