The UK's third heatwave of the year is set to come to an abrupt end, with temperatures forecast to plunge by as much as 15C in just 48 hours, according to new weather maps from forecaster WXCharts.
Temperatures to Peak on July 25 Before Dramatic Drop
WXCharts maps indicate that temperatures will reach their peak around July 25, when parts of England could see highs of up to 35C. However, this intense heat is expected to fade quickly. By Monday, July 27, temperatures are still relatively balmy, lingering in the mid-20s across much of England. But within a 48-hour window, temperatures will crash by as much as 15C by Wednesday, July 29.
Relief After Successive Heatwaves
Britain has already endured three heatwaves this year, with the blazing spells in May and June both smashing temperature records nationwide. Without air conditioning and with stifling humidity, many have struggled to stay cool and get decent sleep during these punishing hot spells. The upcoming cooldown offers much-needed respite, particularly for southern regions that have been most affected.
Most Areas to Fall Below Average by July 29
Prior to the dramatic drop, the most scorching areas will be around southern and western England, including London and the Home Counties. However, by July 29, the majority of the UK is set to experience temperatures below the average for that time of year, according to WXCharts' current maps. This is shown by blue colours on the map, indicating where temperatures will fall beneath the norm.
Met Office Outlook for Late July and August
The Met Office has said that from the end of July into August, there is a possibility of "a somewhat more changeable period, with the potential for showers or thunderstorms or even some longer spells of rain at times, these most likely to the north." Meanwhile, it has warned that weather extremes are becoming the new norm for the UK, with temperatures rarely seen in Britain being experienced multiple times over the summer months this year.
Climate Context: Warming Trends
Mike Kendon, Met Office climate information scientist, said: "2025 was the UK's warmest year on record, the sixth time this record has been broken in the 21st Century so far. The last four years are all in the top five warmest years. With warming at around 0.25°C per decade since the 1980s, it seems likely this record will be broken again in a matter of years."
