The Met Office has issued an extreme heat amber warning for parts of the UK from Monday to Thursday, as temperatures could soar to 38C in what forecasters describe as a 'very unusual, very rare spell of very hot weather'.
Record-Breaking Temperatures Expected
Forecasters have expressed 'growing confidence' that this week could break the record for the hottest June temperature, which currently stands at 35.6C set in Southampton in 1976. The mercury is expected to widely exceed 35C in many areas, with peaks of 38C possible in some locations. In Greater Manchester, Thursday is forecast to be the hottest day, with temperatures climbing to 37C.
Met Office meteorologist Simon Partridge said: “It’s a very unusual, very rare spell of very hot weather, so it’s one of those ones where people should take care, try to keep their houses as cool as possible, check in on those that are vulnerable, so the very young and very old, in particular, are more vulnerable to extreme heat. But everybody will feel this because it will be very hot and the overnight temperatures, in particular, will mean that people won’t be getting as much sleep, probably, as they would usually do, so it will affect everyone.”
Health and Transport Warnings
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has warned of significant impacts across health and social care services, along with a rise in deaths, particularly among those aged 65 and over or with health conditions. Separate amber heat health alerts have been issued by the UKHSA covering most of England from Monday morning until Friday night, while a yellow alert is in place for the North East of England during the same period.
The extreme heat could also cause disruptions to rail, road, and air travel, with the possibility of some tarmac melting, according to the Met Office. Partridge added: “There’s also potential for impacts to transport as well. We know that when things get very warm, there can sometimes be issues with railway lines, and even possibility that some roads might not be doing too well. If it gets too warm, you may even see a little bit of tarmac melting at times.”
Regional Forecast
The hottest temperatures are expected in areas between Bristol and London and south of the M4, with most of England and Wales set to hit more than 30C this week, according to Partridge. The amber warning covers much of England, with the most severe heat concentrated in southern and central regions.
The Met Office advises people to stay hydrated, keep homes cool, and check on vulnerable individuals during this rare heatwave event.
