The UK is set to experience its fourth heatwave of the summer next week, following a brief respite this weekend, according to weather forecasting models. The GFS weather model indicates that temperatures could soar to 36C in parts of southern and central England by Sunday, July 26.
Weekend Cooldown Before Heat Returns
This weekend will offer some relief from the recent hot spell, with the Met Office forecasting highs of 28C in southern areas and 24C in northern regions on Saturday. Sunday will see peak temperatures of 26C in the south and 24C in the north. The 13-day streak of consecutive 30C days has ended, marking the conclusion of the UK's third heatwave.
However, the cooler conditions will be short-lived. Data from the GFS model shows temperatures climbing again from next Friday, with western areas reaching 31C and Yorkshire enjoying 29C.
Next Week's Heatwave Details
By next Saturday, July 25, southern England could see highs of 33C, while parts of Wales may reach 30C. The Midlands and East Anglia are forecast to experience temperatures up to 32C.
On Sunday, July 26, the heat is expected to peak, with potential highs of 36C across southern and central England, stretching from Gloucestershire to East Anglia. The following Monday also looks warm, with data showing highs of 33C possible in eastern England and South Yorkshire, and the north-west reaching 31C.
Regions Most Affected
Temperature anomaly maps for this period show the UK, particularly England and Wales, shaded in dark red, indicating temperatures well above the seasonal average. The GFS model identifies 16 English counties that could see temperatures of 35C or more next week:
- Shropshire
- Herefordshire
- Gloucestershire
- Somerset
- Wiltshire
- Oxfordshire
- Berkshire
- Surrey
- Buckinghamshire
- Hertfordshire
- Bedfordshire
- Worcestershire
- Warwickshire
- Northamptonshire
- Cambridgeshire
- Norfolk
According to the Met Office, the recent 13-day streak of 30C days has ended, but the upcoming heatwave could bring even higher temperatures. The GFS model suggests that the fourth heatwave of the summer is imminent, with widespread hot conditions expected across England and Wales.
