The UK is set to experience a five-day heatwave from August 19 to 23, with temperatures potentially reaching 36°C, according to weather maps from WXCharts. The hottest areas are expected to be in the southeast of England, with the mercury peaking on August 23.
After a mixed start to August with Storm Floris bringing heavy rain and winds, conditions are expected to become more settled from mid-month. The Met Office has confirmed that temperatures will rise markedly from Sunday, August 18, as the remnants of Tropical Storm Dexter draw warm air from the southwest across the UK.
Met Office Deputy Chief Meteorologist Steven Keates said: "We’re confident that temperatures will increase markedly by the start of next week, reaching the low 30s Celsius in parts of England on Monday and perhaps the mid 30s in a few places on Tuesday." However, he noted uncertainty about the length of the warm spell, with high temperatures possibly persisting further into the week, especially in the south.
On August 22, temperatures are expected to be highest across the country, with northern Scotland reaching the high 20s Celsius. However, by August 23, Scotland is likely to see much cooler conditions, with temperatures only in the mid to high teens.
For the period from August 22 to September 5, the Met Office predicts high pressure will dominate, bringing largely settled conditions. Above-average temperatures are likely overall, with potential for further hot spells, particularly in the east and south. However, by the end of the month, there are signals for high pressure to become less dominant, with a greater chance of rain, especially in the south.
