The Met Office has issued a rare red extreme heat warning for London as temperatures are forecast to soar to a record-breaking 40C in the coming days. The warning, in place for Wednesday and Thursday, marks the first time such an alert has been issued for the capital in June.
Scientists have warned that the heat could spiral to levels previously thought almost unimaginable in the UK, with the mercury potentially surpassing the previous June record of 35.6C. Dr Akshay Deoras, a senior research scientist at the University of Reading, described the event as a 'heat-dome driven furnace' that will grip most of southern England.
Londoners are bracing for four 'tropical nights' where temperatures will remain above 20C even after sunset. The high humidity is expected to make conditions feel even more oppressive, reducing the body's ability to cool itself through sweating. Several schools have announced closures due to 'uncomfortable and potentially unsafe' environments, while Eurostar has cancelled a number of journeys to and from London.
The heatwave is forecast to last the entire working week, with temperatures peaking at 36C on Tuesday, 40C on Wednesday, and 39C on Thursday before dropping to 29C on Friday. If Wednesday's forecast holds, it could approach or surpass London's hottest-ever day of 40.2C recorded in July 2022.
The Met Office has extended an amber alert for extreme heat until at least the end of Thursday. Deputy chief forecaster Greg Wolverson warned of 'potential impacts' from the high temperatures and humidity, which will make conditions feel warmer and more uncomfortable.
