The Met Office has confirmed that the UK will experience a largely settled week of summer weather before a potential return of heatwave conditions early in the week beginning July 6. This respite follows last week's record-breaking June temperatures, which saw the mercury hit 37.7°C in Lingwood, Norfolk, on Friday – the highest June temperature ever recorded in the UK. This figure was later revised up by 0.4°C from the initial real-time reading.
Record Heat and Regional Impacts
Last week's extreme heat prompted a heat-health alert for the North East, which remained in place until Sunday morning. The region also witnessed lightning strikes on Friday, leading to a school closure and a family home being struck by lightning. The North East experienced a range of extreme weather, with temperatures soaring above 37°C in parts of the UK.
Forecast for the Coming Week
According to the Met Office, temperatures for the coming week have returned to average, bringing largely settled conditions for many. Neil Armstrong, a chief forecaster, said: “With last week’s heat behind us, there will be much relief for many this week as we are forecasting a pleasant week of summer with temperatures in the low to mid 20s°C for many.”
The forecast indicates that Tuesday through to midweek will see weather “turn more changeable,” with cloud, rain, and possible thunderstorms. However, conditions are expected to improve later in the week.
Potential Return of Heatwave
Tony Wisson, Met Office deputy chief forecaster, explained: “Toward the weekend, high pressure will continue to build in across most of the UK as it extends from the Azores. This will lead to more settled, warm or very warm conditions for many, especially across England and Wales, though some rain may still affect the far north.”
He added: “The forecast for this weekend suggests that temperatures could approach high 20s°C across parts of England, perhaps 30°C in parts of the southeast, with values of mid to high 20s°C in Wales. Although a return to heatwave conditions is looking increasingly likely for some areas, the likelihood of such extreme high temperatures or high levels of humidity as last week is currently low.”
North East Outlook
For the North East, Monday evening will see cloud clearing, with sunny spells developing, especially across the east. Cloud will thicken after dark, with outbreaks of mostly light rain spreading northwest through the early hours, with a minimum temperature of 7°C.
Tuesday will be cloudy to start, largely dry through the morning, but spells of rain, occasionally heavy with a risk of thunder, will move east in the afternoon. Maximum temperature 21°C.
Wednesday through Friday will see a cloudy start with some light rain or showers on Wednesday, then brighter later. Thursday will be wet and windy at first, then drier and brighter later. Friday will be dry, bright, and warm.
