London is currently experiencing a fifth heatwave of a record-breaking summer, with temperatures soaring above 38C on Thursday. The Met Office has issued a rare amber "extreme heat" warning from 9am until midnight, warning of a risk to life.
The hottest temperature of the year in the UK has been recorded in London, with the mercury hitting 38.1C in Kew Gardens. More than 70% of the country is now in drought following a record dry July, and an August that has so far seen just 5% of expected rainfall.
Weekend respite
Friday is also expected to be a scorching day, with highs of 33C predicted in the capital. Temperatures are then due to fall to the mid 20s over the weekend, giving a welcome respite from the extreme heat for many.
But is this the final heatwave of an especially hot summer? Or is more boiling weather round the corner?
Forecast for late August
According to BBC Weather's 14-day forecast for London, temperatures aren't set to exceed 26C from Saturday until at least August 26. We could also see some much-anticipated rain, with overcast conditions predicted from Monday August 24 onwards.
The Met Office, however, states that late August could see the return of high pressure, bringing hot and dry conditions yet again. In their long-term forecast, which covers August 28 through to September 11, the national forecaster says that temperatures will likely be above average and that some spells of hot weather and heatwaves are possible.
So while the extremely high temperatures may nearly be over for now, there remains a good possibility of a sixth heatwave later this summer.
