UK Braces for 37C Heatwave: 16 Counties to Top 30C in August

Weather maps indicate the UK could face another intense summer heatwave, with temperatures potentially climbing to 37C in August. Long-range charts show a large plume of warm air threatening to push at least 16 English counties above 30C.

The Met Office has indicated that temperatures are likely to be typical or above average into early August, with conditions potentially turning "very warm again" at the start of the month. However, experts advise caution for late July, forecasting a mix of sunshine and scattered showers before any sustained heatwave develops.

Peak Heat Expected on August 7

Advanced forecast models point to August 7 as the possible peak of the hot spell, with widespread areas of England exceeding 30C. In contrast, the coolest parts of the UK are expected to see temperatures around 18C. Data from the GFS weather model suggests that on August 7, large parts of southern and eastern England could be more than 5C hotter than the historical average from 1991 to 2020.

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The Met Office stated: "The key message is that further heatwaves are possible but not guaranteed." It added that the longer-range outlook indicates temperatures are likely to be above average overall, with a risk of hot weather and heatwaves later in August.

Heatwave Criteria and Outlook

Meteorologists note that an official heatwave requires temperatures to meet or exceed regional heat thresholds for three consecutive days, with thresholds varying by location. Looking ahead to the August 5-19 period, the Met Office expects high pressure to dominate, bringing dry and settled conditions, especially in southern regions. Northern areas may see light rain or occasional thunderstorms, but overall temperatures should remain above average, keeping the possibility of further heatwaves open.