The UK's prolonged heatwave is set to break this weekend, with cooler temperatures and rain forecast for Sunday. The Met Office has issued a yellow warning for rain on Friday, predicting thunderstorms and torrential downpours in northern and eastern parts of England, with up to 30mm of rainfall possible in just one hour in areas that have seen no rain for over a month.
Tuesday saw temperatures reach 31.4°C in Cavendish, Suffolk, and Wednesday is forecast to hit 33°C, potentially rising to 34°C on Thursday. However, a level three heat health watch alert remains in place for much of east and south-east England until Friday, with a 90% probability of heatwave conditions. The public is advised to take shelter from the sun, particularly vulnerable groups such as the elderly, babies, and those with chronic conditions.
The heatwave has led to severe drought conditions, with several places in England experiencing 54 consecutive days without significant rainfall. The driest first half of summer since 1961 has resulted in a hosepipe ban, closed canals, and dried-up rivers, prompting the Environment Agency to rescue thousands of fish. The National Farmers' Union warns of crops 'parched to the bone' and livestock farmers using winter rations due to lack of grass.
Health officials report increased hospital admissions, with Dr Nick Scriven of the Society for Acute Medicine noting that his unit in Halifax saw winter-level activity due to respiratory symptoms linked to poor air quality. The NHS advises staying out of the sun and watching for signs of sunstroke, including headache, nausea, dizziness, and intense thirst.
Despite the heat, retail sales have surged, with fans up 315% and barbecues up 723% compared to last year. The respite from the heat is expected to arrive on Sunday, bringing cooler temperatures and much-needed rain to parched regions.
