Weather maps indicate Britain is bracing for another scorching heatwave, with temperatures predicted to reach 37C next week. Netweather forecasts show the mercury climbing above 30C across much of the country from Sunday, with the hot spell expected to last at least six days.
Fifth Official Heatwave
This will mark the fifth official heatwave of the season. On Sunday, temperatures are expected to hit 34C, with the most intense heat in the south, where temperatures will remain at 32C or above. The East and West Midlands are also predicted to see peaks of 32C.
Northern England will be slightly cooler, with Greater Manchester expected to reach 29C. The heat will intensify into Monday, with highs of 37C predicted in Berkshire, approaching the recent record of 38C logged at Lingwood, Norfolk on June 26. London, Cambridgeshire, and parts of the south west will see 35C, while Hertfordshire could reach 36C.
Heat Continues Through the Week
Tuesday will bring additional hot spells, with warm air advancing northwards. Many regions in the Midlands and south will stay in the mid-thirties, while Greater Manchester and Cheshire are projected to hit 34C and 35C respectively.
Weather charts remain fiery red into Wednesday, with parts of Yorkshire reaching 30C. Wales and Scotland are expected to see mid-twenties. The hot weather persists through Thursday, with highs of 35C and London at 34C. Friday will see further 35C temperatures in Sussex and Norfolk, with Lincolnshire at 33C and Birmingham at 32C.
Heatwave Definition and Drought Concerns
According to the Met Office, a heatwave is an extended period of hot weather relative to the expected conditions, potentially accompanied by high humidity. The UK threshold is met when a region records at least three consecutive days with daily maximum temperatures at or above the county-specific heatwave threshold.
Under this definition, the six-day stretch will mark the fifth official heatwave this year, as droughts continue to cause problems across the nation. The Met Office forecast indicates dry conditions for most on Monday, with temperatures very warm to hot, and above-average temperatures expected to persist, especially in the south.
