Britain is bracing for what could be its hottest day ever recorded, as forecasters predict a new heatwave that may push temperatures to an unprecedented 41C. The scorching conditions are expected to hit within the second week of July, potentially breaking the current all-time high of 40.3C set during the July 2022 heatwave.
Record-Breaking Temperatures Loom
Advanced weather modelling maps from the GFS model indicate that the mercury could soar to 41C in western England on July 11, with large swathes of the country, from Yorkshire down to London, also experiencing extreme highs. This follows a week in which the UK already saw its hottest June day ever, with temperatures surpassing 37C on three consecutive days, culminating at 37.3C on Friday.
The current UK heat record of 40.3C was recorded in July 2022, but experts now warn that this could be surpassed within days. According to forecasts, the south-east of England could reach as high as 41C, marking a new milestone for the nation.
Timeline of the Heatwave
The heatwave is expected to begin on July 8, when temperatures could rise to 35C in the south-east. Almost all of central and southern England may hit 30C or more, with highs of 33C reaching as far north as Yorkshire. By July 10, staggering highs of 40C are predicted to hit western and southern England, with temperatures of 37C to 39C widely expected across central and southern regions.
The peak is projected for July 11, when the GFS model shows possible temperature maximums of 41C in western England. Swathes of the country, from Yorkshire down to London, could also see temperatures rise as high as 41C.
Official Heatwave Criteria
These temperatures would almost certainly constitute an official heatwave, which is declared when an area records temperatures over the heatwave threshold for three consecutive days. The threshold varies by county: it sits at 28C in the south-east, where temperatures tend to be warmer, and drops to 25C the further away from the south-east one goes.
UK counties facing 40C or more in the new heatwave include Yorkshire, Nottinghamshire, Lincolnshire, Leicestershire, Derbyshire, Northamptonshire, Lancashire, Cheshire, Shropshire, Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire, Herefordshire, Worcestershire, Warwickshire, Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Berkshire, and Surrey.
Impact and Warnings
The scorching weather has already led to school closures and red warnings in place, with many struggling to sleep during the recent heatwave. Experts urge the public to take precautions as the extreme heat poses health risks, particularly for vulnerable groups. The Met Office and health authorities are expected to issue further guidance as the heatwave approaches.
