The Met Office has issued a warning that hot weather will persist in the North East, with temperatures approaching heatwave levels. A yellow heat health alert is in effect for the region from 9am on July 8 until 9pm on July 12, indicating potential significant impacts on health and social care services.
Current Conditions and Forecast
According to the Met Office, high pressure remains the dominant feature, bringing extensive sunshine, dry weather, and temperatures widely above 30°C. The hottest conditions are expected on Thursday and Friday, with some locations in England potentially reaching 35°C or 36°C. In the North East, temperatures are nearing heatwave thresholds.
Gradual Easing Predicted
Deputy Chief Forecaster Tom Crabtree explained: “Many people will understandably want to know how long the current heatwave is likely to last. While temperatures are expected to ease across southeast England through the weekend and into next week, it won't be a straightforward end to the warm weather.”
Crabtree added that high pressure will gradually migrate northwards, shifting the focus of the hottest conditions toward the southwest. As a result, some areas that have seen the highest temperatures will begin to cool, but it will remain very warm, especially in the southwest, where heatwave thresholds may continue to be met.
Nighttime Temperatures and Humidity
Despite the heat, humidity levels are predicted to be lower than during the late June heatwave, allowing some regions to cool more effectively overnight. However, certain towns and cities may still experience very warm nights, making sleep uncomfortable.
Extended Warm Spell
Unlike some summer heat spells that end abruptly, current forecasts suggest a gradual easing of temperatures. By early next week, many areas are expected to remain in the mid-to-high 20s°C, still above average for this time of year. The warmer conditions are likely to shift further north and west.
Overall, the UK is facing a prolonged period of fine, dry, and very warm weather, with the location of the highest temperatures gradually changing as high pressure moves northward.
