New record as temperatures hit 35C or above on six separate days this year

Forecasters say they have recorded six separate days of temperatures of 35C or higher for the first time.

The Met Office recorded a reading of 35.2C in Coton in the Elms in Derbyshire on Friday - as 2026 continues to break heatwave records.

This year so far has also become the first to see temperatures of 35C or higher in three calendar months and there have been nine separate days with temperatures of 34C or higher recorded.

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This month's heatwave follows those in May and June.

The previous records were in 1976 and 2020, during which five days of 35C and above were seen.

Friday is expected to mark the peak of the latest heatwave, though temperatures of 30C or higher are expected to continue into the weekend in parts of the UK.

Met Office science manager, Dr Amy Doherty, said: "This year has already seen a number of remarkable temperature milestones.

"Not only have we now recorded a record eight days with temperatures exceeding 34C, surpassing the previous record held by 1976 and 2020, but it is also the first year in the UK weather record to see temperatures reach 35C or higher in May, June and July.

"These records highlight just how notable this year has been for UK temperatures, with exceptional warmth observed across multiple months."

As temperatures soared, Anglian Water announced restrictions for five million customers in the east of England due to fears of drought conditions.

The ban means customers cannot use hosepipes to water gardens, wash cars or fill up pools from 1am on Saturday.

Affinity Water also announced restrictions due to the ongoing hot, dry weather as higher-than-usual demand hits supplies.

Restrictions are also expected to come into force for about one million Southern Water customers across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight on Friday.

Separately, the Metropolitan Police urged people to avoid getting in touch for non-emergencies amid a surge in 999 calls, with temperatures expected to remain high into the weekend when England will play in the FIFA World Cup.

(c) Sky News 2026: New record as temperatures hit 35C or above on six separate days this year