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Live forecasts update automatically; written guidance last reviewed 20 June 2026 by the Headlines UK weather desk. Data from national met services via Open-Meteo.
Live data from Open-Meteo · updates automatically ·
Remove aerosols, electronics, lighters, medication, and plastic bottles from your car in hot weather. These items can leak, explode, or degrade when temperatures inside a parked vehicle soar past 50°C, creating safety hazards and permanent damage.
Which items should you never leave in a hot car?
The interior of a car parked in direct sun can reach 50–60°C within 30 minutes, even on a 22°C day. Aerosol cans (deodorant, sunscreen, spray paint) can burst or explode. Plastic water bottles may leach chemicals into the water. Lighters can rupture, and lithium-ion batteries in phones, vapes, and power banks risk swelling or catching fire. Medication, sunglasses with plastic frames, and chocolate or canned drinks also degrade or spoil rapidly.
What about food, pets, and people?
Perishable food left in a hot car becomes unsafe within an hour. Never leave children, elderly adults, or pets inside a parked vehicle — even with windows cracked. Heatstroke can occur in minutes. Check the live ranking above for the current UK heatwave risk in your area, and see our UK weather hub for local temperature alerts.
Can I leave sunglasses in the car during a heatwave?
No. Plastic frames and lenses can warp or delaminate above 50°C. Metal frames can burn your skin. Take them with you or store them in a shaded, insulated glovebox.
Is it safe to leave a phone charger plugged in?
No. Chargers and cables left in direct sunlight can overheat and cause fire risk. Unplug and remove them, along with any device connected to the car’s USB port.
What should I do if I find a child or pet locked in a hot car?
Call 999 immediately. If the animal or person shows signs of heatstroke (panting, confusion, unresponsiveness), break a window away from them. The RSPCA advises acting fast.