The UK is set to experience a brief respite from the ongoing heatwave this weekend, with temperatures dropping by up to 7°C in some areas, particularly in Scotland, Northern Ireland, and northern England. However, the cooldown will be short-lived, as meteorologists warn that the heatwave will return early next week.
Weekend Temperature Drop
According to the Met Office, maximum temperatures on Saturday could be seven degrees lower than on Thursday in the north. However, conditions will still be warmer than average across much of the country. In the Midlands, Wales, and southern England, where many of this year's temperature records have been set, temperatures are forecast to hover between 25°C and 27°C.
Despite the cooldown, there is no significant rain expected, as high pressure centred on the west of the UK continues to drag hot and dry conditions into early next week. Some parts of the country have experienced up to a month with no rainfall.
Heatwave to Return Next Week
Meteorologist Jim NR Dale from the British Weather Services told Metro that the current heatwave may not ease up in earnest until July 26. 'It'll become progressively hotter again during next week, again more especially across southern counties of the UK,' Dale said, adding that 'we live in extraordinarily self-inflicted and dangerous times, with much more to come.'
Since May, the nation has endured three separate heatwaves, causing thousands of excess deaths and sparking wildfires across the country. The Met Office noted that the last time temperatures in London exceeded the heatwave threshold for such a prolonged period was in 2003, when the mercury soared above average levels for 13 days straight. The record for the longest heatwave across Greater London was in 1976, with 16 days, though the heatwave criteria have since been updated.
Impact and Precautions
Authorities continue to urge caution as the heatwave persists, with risks of drowning increasing as more people seek water to cool off. More than 100 Londoners have drowned since 2020, and the heatwave creates additional risks. The public is advised to stay hydrated, avoid strenuous activity during peak heat, and check on vulnerable individuals.
