Meteorologists at the University of Reading have recorded Reading’s hottest June since records began in 1908.
The average temperature recorded at the Reading University Atmospheric Observatory in June 2026 was 18.6 °C, surpassing the mean temperature of 18.3°C recorded in June 2025.
The hottest day was Wednesday, June 24, with a maximum temperature of 34.9 °C.
This was a new June record temperature for Reading, surpassing the previous record of 34.0 °C set on 26 June 1976.
The 1976 record had first been exceeded the previous day, Tuesday 23, when the maximum temperature reached 34.1 °C.
Friday, June 26, saw the highest 24-hour minimum temperature on record at 21.3 °C, making this Reading’s hottest night on record.
The previous warmest June night was 18.9 °C, on June 29, 1949, meaning the record was beaten by more than two degrees.
As last week’s heatwave fades, temperatures are expected to surpass 30 °C again next week, according to Met Office forecasts.
Dr Ben Harvey, senior research scientist at the University of Reading, explains the difference between last week’s heatwave and the forecast for a hot spell in July.
He said: “Last week, a slow-moving area of low pressure known as a ‘cut-off’ low became stranded off the coast of Portugal and tapped into the very warm air mass over north Africa, bringing it northward over western Europe.
“This setup is not in itself exceptional, but the length of time it persisted was unusual and its positioning was just right to impact France and the UK.
“It led to the record-shattering temperatures observed, with our warming climate making its ever-present contribution.”
“So far, the forecasts for next week are different–a more typical ridging scenario is expected, with high pressure, clear skies and warm temperatures but, crucially, not the cut-off low dragging up the really hot and humid air from the south.
“So while a heatwave is forecast, and its impacts will be heightened due to following a very hot period, the synoptic situation is currently suggesting slightly lower temperatures overall and potentially also more stable forecasts.
“But as always with forecasts a week ahead, the details will change as we get closer. I’d encourage people to keep checking the latest forecasts rather than relying on what’s predicted now, and to take any weather warnings seriously when they’re issued.
“These warnings exist to help people prepare, whether that means staying hydrated, checking on elderly neighbours or adjusting plans to avoid the peak heat.”
