Britain is set to experience a fourth heatwave this week, with temperatures expected to reach 35°C. The return of sweltering conditions follows a brief period of rain across the country over the weekend.
Heatwave Timing and Intensity
Parts of the UK have just seen the end of their third heatwave after three consecutive weeks above the temperature threshold. Forecasts suggest an even more intense surge of heat could arrive by midweek. The hottest weather will begin in central and eastern England on Tuesday before spreading north and west.
Wednesday is likely to be the hottest day of the week, with East Wales and most of England seeing temperatures between 30°C and 35°C. The mercury could hit 35°C once again.
Met Office Outlook
The Met Office’s long-range forecast indicates this week's heatwave may not be the last of the summer. The Met Office said: “By next weekend, the forecast suggests a return to cooler weather with Atlantic systems bringing some rain and westerly winds. Unfortunately for southern areas, where the rain is needed most, it may remain dry. How long the heat lasts depends on whether a southerly or westerly wind develops. A westerly wind will bring an end to heatwave conditions, while southerly winds could signal a return to intense heat.”
Wildfires and Dry Conditions
The heatwaves come as wildfires continue to tear through parts of the UK. Homes were evacuated after a blaze swept through the Cairngorms National Park, which Police Scotland declared a major incident. Wildfires are still burning across the Rhinogydd mountains in North Wales and in Blaenavon, South Wales, with the latter affecting 220 hectares. Recent days have also seen blazes on heathland on the Isle of Wight, woodland in the New Forest, and fields in Tadley, Hampshire.
The UK has received only 20% of its average July rainfall, taking into account wetter areas. Mr Petagna added that it is “very, very unusual” for a hot and dry spell to last this long. The dry conditions follow last year’s drought summer, as the UK faces more extreme weather fueled by human-caused climate change, mostly from burning fossil fuels.
