UK ENTERS THIRD HEATWAVE WITH TEMPERATURES FORECAST AT 34C

The United Kingdom is experiencing its third heatwave of the year, with temperatures forecast to reach 34 degrees Celsius in the south-east of England. The UK Health Security Agency issued a week-long yellow heat health alert on Saturday, scheduled to remain in place until 8pm on Saturday 11 July. The alert covers the East Midlands, eastern, south-eastern and south-western England, including London, and the West Midlands.

Aidan McGivern, a meteorologist at the Met Office, stated that the current heatwave would be less severe than previous episodes. McGivern said the conditions would not be "as hot or as humid" and would not affect the whole of the United Kingdom. Two water companies have introduced temporary restrictions in response to the heat. Southern Water implemented a hosepipe ban across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight from 12:01am on 10 July, whilst South East Water's hosepipe ban for Kent commenced on Friday.

The hosepipe bans reflect concerns over water supply during the period of elevated temperatures. The restrictions prohibit customers from using hosepipes for purposes including garden watering and car washing. The measures remain in force for the duration of the yellow alert period.