The Met Office has forecast an end to the UK heatwave, with temperatures expected to plummet by up to 15C from Sunday onwards. A rare red heat warning remains in effect until midnight Thursday, covering an area from London through Somerset and Swansea to Birmingham. An amber warning has been extended until 9pm on Saturday as temperatures continue to climb beyond previous records.
Peak Temperatures and Warnings
On Thursday, temperatures are predicted to reach 40C in some parts, with widespread readings above 37C. The heatwave has already caused widespread disruption, with schools and transport networks affected by closures and reduced timetables. Overnight temperatures remain high, particularly in urban areas where they are not expected to drop below 20C.
Wednesday's peak broke the previous June record of 35.6C, set in both 1976 and 1957, according to the Met Office. The forecaster noted that the intense heat will push northwards on Thursday, with amber and red extreme heat warnings still in force.
Heat-Dome Driving the Heatwave
The heatwave is being driven by a heat-dome that has settled over western Europe, bringing extreme conditions across the continent. The sweltering heat is expected to persist in some parts of the country into the weekend. However, relief is on the horizon as the muggy conditions are expected to subside from Sunday onwards.
The Met Office stated: "Thursday will see the peak of the heat for many, though those further east will retain extreme heat on Friday and Saturday and could continue to see further impacts, which has resulted in Amber warnings. The far southeast will retain the warmth the longest, though there should be a climb-down in figures by Saturday, with peaks around 32C likely."
Temperature Drop from Sunday
By Sunday, temperatures could drop by around 15C. Cardiff is forecast to reach just 20C, while London is expected to top out at 26C. The Met Office added: "Next week is likely to see a change to more of a westerly influence on the UK's weather, with a return to more average temperatures for the time of year and a mixture of winds and rain, particularly for those in the North West."
The drop in temperature is likely to be a welcome relief for millions across the country following the widespread disruption caused by the heatwave.
