The Met Office has issued a red weather warning for extreme heat across parts of Wales, with temperatures forecast to reach nearly 40°C on Wednesday and Thursday. The warning, described as 'extremely rare,' covers much of southern Wales and warns of a 'severe weather event' that could pose a risk to life and cause widespread disruption.
Warning Details and Affected Areas
The red warning is in effect from 9am on Wednesday, June 24, until 9pm on Thursday, June 25. It covers Blaenau Gwent, Bridgend, Caerphilly, Cardiff, Carmarthenshire, Merthyr Tydfil, Monmouthshire, Neath Port Talbot, Newport, Powys, Rhondda Cynon Taf, Swansea, Torfaen, and the Vale of Glamorgan. According to the Met Office, 'an exceptional spell of hot and humid weather is expected across this region, with impacts to the general population highly likely.'
Temperatures and Impacts
Temperatures are expected to reach 38°C in some areas, with the possibility of 40°C in isolated spots. The Met Office stated: 'During the heatwave expected to affect a large part of England and Wales this week, the highlighted area now looks increasingly likely to see a two to three day period where maximum temperatures in the shade exceed 37°C, perhaps rising to 38 to 40°C in some places.' The heat will be accompanied by high humidity, exacerbating discomfort and health impacts, with very warm and humid nights reducing the ability for people to recover overnight. Significant disruption to daily life is likely, and the public is advised to take precautions and adapt routines.
Daily Breakdown
Monday will see temperatures rise to 31°C in areas like Monmouth and Chepstow, with Cardiff reaching 30°C by 3pm. Coastal areas remain cooler, in the mid-20s. An amber warning is in place until 11:59pm on Tuesday, with temperatures around midnight still at 23°C. Tuesday afternoon will see highs of 34°C in Cardiff, Newport, Chepstow, and Hay-on-Wye. Wednesday is expected to be a scorcher, with temperatures reaching 37°C in Cardiff and remaining in the high 20s overnight. Thursday is forecast to be the hottest day, with temperatures hitting 38°C in parts of Wales. The Met Office has warned of health effects, changes in working practices, increased risk of water safety incidents, and road delays or closures.
Cooling Trend Expected
No weather warnings are in place for Friday, Saturday, or Sunday, as temperatures are expected to cool towards the weekend.
