Heatwave Returns to Southern Britain
The UK is set to experience a third spell of scorching weather, with temperatures potentially reaching over 30C, prompting fresh health warnings from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). A yellow Heat-Health Alert has been issued covering the East Midlands, East of England, London, the South East, and the South West from midday on Saturday until 5pm on Wednesday.
Health Risks and Vulnerable Groups
The UKHSA warned that the hot weather could increase pressure on health and social care services, posing a greater risk to vulnerable people, including older adults and those with existing health conditions. Officials urged people to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged sun exposure during peak hours, and check on elderly relatives and neighbours.
Met Office Forecast
The Met Office stated that temperatures are set to rise steadily after a brief spell of cooler weather. Deputy Chief Forecaster Tony Wisson said a return to heatwave conditions was becoming "increasingly likely" for some areas, though temperatures are not expected to reach the record-breaking levels seen last week. High pressure building in from the Azores will bring hot weather across southern Britain, with highs in the high 20Cs widely and some parts of the South East potentially hitting 30C or above.
Recent Heat Records
This latest hot spell follows an extraordinary end to June when the UK recorded its hottest June day on record. A temperature of 37.7C was recorded at Lingwood, Norfolk, smashing the previous June record of 35.6C from 1976. The blistering conditions led to rare red heat warnings, several hospitals declaring critical incidents due to equipment and IT system failures, and hundreds of schools closing early as classrooms became too hot.
Regional Variations and Pollen Warning
Forecasters say this latest spell is unlikely to be as humid or extreme as last week's heatwave, but southern parts of England will bear the brunt of the hottest weather while northern areas remain several degrees cooler. The warmer weather could also bring high pollen levels, with Allergy UK warning that thunderstorms can trigger "thunderstorm asthma," where pollen particles are broken up and inhaled deep into the lungs, worsening symptoms for people with asthma and hay fever.
