The Met Office has issued an amber extreme heat warning for Monday and Tuesday, covering London, the southeast, southwest, Midlands, east of England, and parts of Wales. Temperatures are forecast to reach up to 37°C in London and the southeast on Tuesday and Wednesday, with many areas exceeding 30°C for up to a week. Overnight temperatures are expected to remain above 20°C.
Health and Safety Concerns
The Met Office warned of potential impacts on people and infrastructure, with water safety being a particular concern following the deaths of over a dozen teenagers in a heatwave last month. High UV levels are also anticipated. The amber warning may be extended as confidence in the duration of the heat increases.
Record-Breaking Temperatures Possible
The Met Office expressed growing confidence that next week’s heatwave could surpass the current June record of 35.6°C, set in Southampton in 1976. Climate change is making such heatwaves more common in Britain. Earlier this year, the late May Bank Holiday saw two consecutive days of unprecedented heat for that time of year.
Comparison with Europe
Mainland Europe is experiencing similar conditions. In France, temperatures could reach 42°C, prompting a ban on alcohol at state-run events in 35 of 101 departments, including Paris, to prevent dehydration deaths. The annual Fête de la Musique, scheduled for Sunday, has been cancelled due to the heat.
