The UK heatwave is set to peak on Friday, with weather maps and the Met Office forecasting temperatures of up to 36C in seven English counties. The GFS weather model indicates that Herefordshire, Gloucestershire, Worcestershire, Warwickshire, Oxfordshire, Berkshire, and Buckinghamshire could all reach 36C on Friday.
Met Office Forecast for Friday
In a forecast issued this morning, the Met Office said the mercury could peak at 35C in southern areas on Thursday, with 31C in northern regions. On Friday, temperatures could reach 36C in the south and 33C in the north. The GFS model supports these highs, showing 36C possible in southern and western England, with areas as far north as Yorkshire hitting 33C and 35C in the southeast around London.
Temperature Anomaly Maps
Temperature anomaly maps for Friday show vast swathes of the UK in deep red and black, indicating temperatures well above the seasonal average. The GFS model confirms that seven English counties are set for 36C.
Weekend Weather Outlook
Despite the heat, the Met Office warns of rain in the northwest on Friday that may turn heavy at times. Elsewhere, conditions will be mostly dry and sunny. On Saturday, highs of 35C are expected in southern areas and 32C in the north, dropping to 33C and 29C respectively on Sunday.
The Met Office weekend forecast states: “An easterly breeze this weekend, strongest in the south, brings cloud to eastern coasts whilst the west remains sunnier and hotter. Chance of showers in the southwest on Monday.”
Next Week: Gradual Easing
Heatwave conditions are expected to ease gradually from next week, though temperatures will remain warm. The Met Office said: “By early next week, many areas are expected to remain in the mid-to-high 20s, with temperatures still above average for the time of year and the warmer conditions expected to become focused further north and west, rather than disappearing altogether. The overall picture is therefore one of a prolonged spell of fine, dry and very warm weather, with the location of the highest temperatures gradually changing as high pressure shifts northwards across the UK.”
