London could see a fourth heatwave within days as temperatures are set to rise again, according to BBC Weather. After a brief reprieve over the weekend with temperatures dropping to around 24°C, the mercury is expected to climb steadily through the week.
Forecast Details
As of 2pm on Monday, Wednesday is predicted to reach 26°C, followed by 27°C on Thursday. By Friday, temperatures are forecast to edge up to a sweltering 29°C, ahead of a balmy 25°C weekend. Next week will remain warm, with highs between 26°C and 27°C through until July 31st.
Heatwave Threshold
In London, a heatwave is defined as temperatures reaching 28°C for three or more consecutive days. While the coming days will feel warm, they may not meet this threshold. However, a fourth heatwave could sweep across the capital on the final weekend of July, with BBC Weather predicting temperatures exceeding 28°C across three days from July 31 to August 2. Saturday is set to be the hottest at 30°C, while Friday and Sunday will hover between 28°C and 29°C.
Rainfall and Drought
Scattered showers are forecast between July 31 and August 2, which would be a welcome sight in London. The city has not seen a proper drop of rain in over two weeks, with the last rainfall on June 27. The south-east of England has experienced the longest unbroken spell of no recorded rainfall in 30 years, according to the Met Office. The dry weather has led to drought conditions across much of the country, with millions affected by hosepipe bans.
Wildfire and Transport Risks
The London Fire Brigade has warned of increased wildfire risks as the capital's green spaces turn into tinderboxes amid the warm weather. Train services have also been disrupted by the unprecedented heat, with widespread cancellations across the transport network.
