Thousands gathered at Stonehenge and Avebury in Wiltshire on Sunday morning to celebrate the summer solstice, as the UK prepares for a heatwave that could see temperatures break the record for the hottest June day. The Met Office has issued an amber extreme heat warning for large parts of England and Wales, with temperatures expected to peak at around 35C on Tuesday and Wednesday.
Record-Breaking Temperatures Expected
Forecasters have expressed growing confidence that the current heatwave could surpass the June temperature record of 35.6C, set in Southampton in 1976. Met Office meteorologist Jonathan Vautrey stated, "Temperatures climbing towards the mid-30s in places, that is quite exceptional for June." The highest temperature recorded on Saturday was 27.7C in Writtle, Essex.
Summer Solstice Celebrations
At Stonehenge, over 20,000 visitors, some wearing flower headdresses, cheered as the sun rose at 4:25 am on the longest day of the year. English Heritage reported the large turnout for the annual event, where attendees touched the ancient monument and celebrated the solstice.
Heatwave Impact Across Europe
The heatwave is not limited to the UK; Europe is also experiencing extreme temperatures. Rome is forecast to reach 37C, Madrid 39C, and parts of France may hit 40C on Sunday and Monday. French authorities have imposed restrictions on public alcohol consumption and cancelled outdoor sporting events, with emergency services on wildfire alert.
Weather Warnings and Health Alerts
The Met Office has issued an amber extreme heat warning for Monday and Tuesday across most of southern England, southeastern and eastern Wales, and much of the Midlands. The alert warns of potential health impacts for vulnerable people and the wider population, as well as an increased risk of water safety incidents. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has also issued amber heat health alerts for eastern, southeastern, and southwestern England from Monday morning until Wednesday evening, with a yellow alert for Yorkshire, Humber, northeast, and northwest England.
Safety Advice During the Heatwave
The Met Office advises people in the affected areas to drink plenty of fluids, stay out of the sun, and avoid exercise between 11 am and 3 pm. Jonathan Vautrey emphasized water safety: "Water safety as well is going to be paramount if you are by the coast or other water bodies inland." This follows at least 15 deaths in open water incidents during a hot spell in May. Samantha Hughes, national water safety partner at the Royal National Lifeboat Institution, warned: "With warmer weather approaching, it's important to remember that the water is still cold. Entering it unexpectedly can lead to cold water shock." The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has reminded employers to protect workers while maintaining productivity during the heatwave.
