The BBC has forecast a prolonged spell of hot weather across parts of the UK, with temperatures expected to reach or exceed 30C for eight consecutive days. The heatwave is predicted to begin on Sunday and persist throughout the entirety of next week.
Heatwave Timeline and Expected Temperatures
According to the BBC Weather forecast, some areas of England could see temperatures climb to 30C or higher from Sunday, June 21, through Sunday, June 28. The mercury is expected to rise as the week progresses, with some locations potentially hitting 34C by Tuesday. Kew Gardens in London is highlighted as one of the hottest spots, with forecasts indicating temperatures will not drop below 30C during this period. Specifically, the forecast shows 30C on Sunday, 32C on Monday, 34C on Tuesday, 33C on Wednesday, 32C on Thursday and Friday, 33C on Saturday, and 31C on Sunday.
Amber Heat Health Alerts Remain in Place
The warm weather coincides with amber heat health alerts issued by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) for parts of southern and eastern England. These alerts, valid until Tuesday evening, warn that high temperatures could significantly impact health and social care services, particularly for vulnerable groups such as the elderly and those with pre-existing medical conditions.
Current Conditions and Weekend Outlook
Friday, June 19, is expected to be the first very hot day, with temperatures nearing 30C in parts of southeast England. After a slightly cooler Saturday, temperatures are forecast to rise again from Sunday, intensifying into the following week. Tuesday is predicted to be one of the hottest days, with widespread temperatures between 26C and 32C across England and Wales, and up to 34C in some southeastern areas.
Potential to Approach June Record
Forecasters indicate a small possibility that temperatures could approach the UK's June record of 35.6C, set in 1976. Many locations are also expected to meet the official heatwave criteria, which requires three consecutive days above a temperature threshold ranging from 25C to 28C, depending on the region.
Meteorological Drivers
The current hot spell is driven by a large area of high pressure over western Europe, often described as a "heat dome," where warm air becomes trapped and continues to heat up. This follows an exceptionally warm spring, with Kew Gardens recording 35.1C in May, a new UK temperature record for that month. The Met Office described that event as one of the most extreme spring heat events ever recorded in the UK.
