New weather maps from WXCharts indicate that the UK is set to experience a return of extreme heatwave conditions, with temperatures potentially reaching 35C by Saturday, July 25. The heat surge follows a cooler few days and will affect large parts of the country, from the south coast to the Midlands, northern Wales, Yorkshire, and even Scotland.
Temperature Forecast Details
According to the Global Forecast System (GFS) maps published by WXCharts, southern and south-eastern England could see highs of 35C on July 25. Central areas such as Peterborough, Northampton, and Birmingham are expected to reach between 30C and 34C. The heat will extend northwards, with Lancashire and Yorkshire towns like Leeds, Bradford, Preston, and Huddersfield hovering around 30C, while York, Harrogate, and the Yorkshire Dales see 26C to 29C. Even Scotland will not escape, with Aberdeen forecast to reach 19C, the coolest in the country.
Met Office Long-Range Outlook
The Met Office forecast for July 22 to 31 warns of temperatures "above average" but also mentions possible rain. It states: "Most places will be dry at first with sunny spells, especially in the south, while northern and northwestern areas see more cloud and occasional patchy rain or drizzle. Through the weekend and into next week, conditions become a little more changeable, with showers and some longer spells of rain increasingly likely, mainly across northern parts of the UK. Further south, many places should stay drier overall with some good sunshine, although a few showers cannot be ruled out. Towards the end of the period, confidence becomes lower, but there are signs that more settled and drier conditions may return, particularly in the south." Winds are expected to be light to moderate, and temperatures near or above average, with the warmest in the south.
Impact and Precautions
The return of such high temperatures may lead to health risks, especially for vulnerable groups, and increased demand for cooling systems. The public is advised to stay hydrated, avoid direct sun during peak hours, and check on elderly relatives. The heatwave also raises concerns about wildfires, following recent incidents like the Cairngorms wildfire and a temporary steam train ban due to wildfire risks near the Harry Potter express route.
