The Met Office has issued a warning that «exceptionally high» temperatures are likely to persist through midweek.

The United Kingdom experienced its warmest June day on record Wednesday as heat levels continued to rise across Europe.

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According to the Met Office, the UK’s official weather and climate body, provisional data indicates the town of Gosport in Hampshire reached 36.1 °C, narrowly surpassing Wisley in Surrey, which recorded 36 °C.

Earlier, Wiggonholt in West Sussex was believed to have set the record with 35.8 °C.

These elevated temperatures are forecasted to last until midweek, with large areas of southern England and southeastern Wales placed under a red heat warning for Thursday. Amber alerts cover most of Wales alongside sections of northern, eastern, and southwestern England.

The Met Office recommends drinking ample fluids, avoiding sun exposure, and refraining from physical activity between 11 am and 3 pm.

«When venturing outside, carry water, stay shaded, apply sunscreen, and wear a hat with a wide brim,» it advised.

Temperatures across the UK are projected to fall sharply by next week, although some regions will still experience above-normal heat.

Across the Channel, France is also enduring intense heat. Palluau in western France reached 43.8°C on Wednesday, while Pissos in the southwest hit 44.3°C on Tuesday, according to Météo-France.

In Paris, the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre museum announced early closures for this week due to the heatwave.

Some areas of Spain are reporting temperatures exceeding 40°C as well.