UK temperatures forecast to exceed 30C as another heatwave imminent
Parts of the UK are expected to experience rising temperatures starting this weekend, with forecasters indicating that highs could surpass 30C.
For some regions, this will represent the third heatwave of the year.
Temperatures may reach up to 33C in southern and south-eastern England, while 30C is possible as far north as South Yorkshire. Cooler conditions are anticipated in western areas.
Although this upcoming hot spell is not predicted to be as severe as the record-breaking heatwave experienced in late June, it is expected to last considerably longer, potentially extending into mid-July.
Temperatures are also forecast to rise across western Europe during the coming week, with numerous cities likely to exceed 30C once again.
How long will this heatwave last?
Temperatures will begin to increase gradually over the weekend as high pressure from the Azores builds over the UK.
The warmest conditions are anticipated from Monday onwards, with temperatures across much of England and Wales expected to peak during the middle to latter part of the week.
Several areas may meet the official heatwave criteria if these elevated temperatures persist for at least three consecutive days.
The highest temperatures will be concentrated in southern and eastern England, where values could widely exceed 30C.
In the north-east of England and eastern Scotland, temperatures could reach the mid to high 20s.
Regions on the western side of the UK, including Lancashire, the Lake District, western Scotland, and Northern Ireland, will experience an Atlantic breeze that will act as a natural air conditioner, limiting temperatures to the low to mid-20s.
Currently, many forecasting models indicate that this hot spell could continue into mid-July, although it is unlikely to reach the record-breaking temperatures observed in June.
Heat health alerts issued
Yellow heat health alerts have been issued by the UK Health Security Agency for the East Midlands, West Midlands, east of England, London, south-east England, and south-west England. These alerts are in effect from noon on Saturday until 20:00 BST on Saturday 11 July. They warn of an increased risk to health, particularly for vulnerable populations, due to the expected heat.
In the UK, a heatwave is defined as a period of at least three consecutive days during which daily maximum temperatures meet or exceed regional thresholds. These thresholds vary by location but are typically around 25C in much of the country and 28C in London and parts of the south-east.
During such conditions, there is a heightened risk of heat-related illnesses, especially among older individuals and those with underlying health conditions.
What is driving this spell of hot weather?
A ridge of high pressure associated with the Azores High—a large semi-permanent centre of high atmospheric pressure—is expected to extend northeastwards across the UK, while the jet stream shifts further north.
This pattern will allow high pressure to dominate, blocking Atlantic low-pressure systems and resulting in a more settled weather pattern characterized by abundant sunshine, dry conditions, and another significant burst of summer heat for many.
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