The UK is preparing for its third heatwave of the year this week, with temperatures anticipated to reach a maximum of 34°C in certain areas.
Across much of southern England, temperatures are predicted to climb into the low 30s Celsius, with some regions potentially hitting 34-35°C later in the week.
Steven Keates, a Deputy Chief Forecaster at the Met Office, stated: “Parts of the UK are entering heatwave conditions: the third heatwave in the UK so far this year.”
However, this latest hot spell is not expected to match the intensity of June’s record-breaking heatwave, which saw some parts of the country reach 37.7°C. Despite this, it is forecast to persist for a considerably longer duration in many areas.
Mr Keates commented: “Unlike the May and June heatwaves, we are not expecting this heatwave to be record-breaking. Temperatures this week are not expected to reach the highs we witnessed last month.”
Night-time temperatures are also not projected to be as high as those experienced last month. Nevertheless, the Met Office indicated that some larger cities are likely to maintain temperatures in the high teens Celsius overnight, particularly towards the end of the week. There is also a possibility of a tropical night, where temperatures do not drop below 20°C, being recorded in a few locations.
The heatwave is set to impact most of England and Wales, as well as some areas of Scotland and Northern Ireland, although temperatures in these northern regions are only expected to reach the upper 20s.
For southern parts of the UK, predicted highs include approximately 32°C on Tuesday, rising to 33°C on Wednesday, 34°C on Thursday, with isolated areas potentially reaching 35°C on Friday and Saturday.
According to the Met Office, the current heatwave is likely to extend into the weekend, accompanied by increasing humidity and a heightened risk of showers or isolated thunderstorms. Early next week, a slight cooling is anticipated, with many areas still experiencing dry, fine, and warm conditions.
A period of hot weather is officially classified as a heatwave when temperatures meet or surpass the daily maximum for that specific time of year for three consecutive days.
The public is advised to take sensible precautions during this week’s heat, including maintaining hydration, avoiding prolonged sun exposure during the hottest parts of the day, and checking on vulnerable friends, family, and neighbours.
Sun protection is also vital, as UV levels are expected to be high or very high across many parts of the UK throughout the week.
