A record-breaking heatwave is underway across the UK, with the June temperature high almost certain to fall in the coming days.

The previous peak of 35.6C from 1976 looks set to be eclipsed, as forecasts point to readings reaching 38C or 39C in several regions.

The Met Office has placed a rare red alert for dangerous heat over parts of England and Wales, running from 09:00 BST Wednesday until 21:00 Thursday.

Affected zones include London, Cardiff, the south west, south east, Midlands and eastern England.

Red warnings signal conditions that could cause serious health risks or major travel problems.

Amber alerts cover the North West, North East and Yorkshire.

Here is how the extreme warmth may influence athletes and spectators at major fixtures this week.

Two prominent tennis tournaments are scheduled: Wimbledon qualifying and the Eastbourne Open.

From the 2026 season the ATP has added an extreme-heat protocol allowing a 10-minute cooling break in best-of-three singles matches.

The threshold uses the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature, which factors in heat, humidity, wind, sun position and cloud cover.

Once the reading hits 30.1C or above in the opening two sets, either player may request the break to rehydrate, change kit, shower or consult a coach under medical supervision.

Play stops entirely if the index climbs past 32.2C.

The WTA has operated a similar policy for more than three decades.

The measures follow a Shanghai Masters episode where temperatures hit 34C with 80 percent humidity, prompting player concerns over safety.

The Lawn Tennis Association is urging fans at both venues to drink water, wear hats and apply sunscreen.

Big screens and announcements reinforce the advice, while extra water stations and bottle-refill points have been installed.

Ball crews are rotating more frequently to limit exposure.

The women's T20 World Cup continues, and England's men begin a Test against New Zealand at Trent Bridge on Thursday.

Scotland and Ireland play T20 World Cup matches at Gloucestershire on Tuesday, followed by England versus West Indies at Lord's on Wednesday.

Although crowds above 5,000 were anticipated, school closures linked to the heat mean roughly 2,000 fewer young spectators will attend.

Further drops are likely as some ticket holders opt to remain at home.

Opening flag ceremonies have been shortened for safety, especially those involving under-18s.

Venues assess player welfare through dedicated safety officers, with no fixed temperature cutoff for abandonment.

Instead the ECB requires additional drink breaks and may shorten games if conditions threaten health.

Umpires retain authority to halt play under MCC laws if conditions become hazardous.

The ECB stated that ICC and ECB heat guidance is applied case by case, involving safety officers, officials, medics and event teams.

Spectator advice has also been updated to promote safe enjoyment.

At recreational level the ECB recommends shorter formats and shaded recovery zones.

Climate change is making heatwaves and floods more frequent in the UK.

Rising global temperatures mean sports scheduling and the wellbeing of everyone involved will face ongoing challenges.

Dr Alan Dangour of the Wellcome Trust notes that climate effects now touch players, officials and supporters alike.

Extreme conditions are threatening both elite competitions and community sport, underscoring the need to factor these risks into future planning.