Weather maps indicate a dramatic temperature rise across the UK, with forecasts suggesting highs of 37C and 16 counties expected to exceed 30C. The Met Office reports that temperatures are likely to remain near or above average into early August, with potential for conditions to become "very warm again" at the start of the month.
Forecast Details
The latest weather maps show temperatures could peak at 37C on August 7, with much of England forecast to see temperatures above 30C. The coolest parts of the UK are expected to remain around 18C. A GFS map comparing forecast temperatures with the 1991–2020 average reveals much of southern and eastern England more than 5C warmer than normal on that date.
Heatwave Criteria
The Met Office stated: "The key message is that further heatwaves are possible but not guaranteed. The longer-range outlook indicates that temperatures are likely to be above average overall, with a risk of hot weather and heatwaves later in August." A heatwave is officially recorded when an area reaches or exceeds its temperature threshold for three consecutive days, with thresholds varying across the UK.
Long-Range Outlook
In its forecast for August 5 to August 19, the Met Office said higher pressure is more likely to dominate, bringing generally settled and dry weather, especially in the south. While some rain and isolated summer thunderstorms remain possible, particularly in northern areas, temperatures are expected to stay above average with the potential for further hot spells.
Counties Forecast to Reach 30C or Higher
- Bedfordshire
- Buckinghamshire
- Cambridgeshire
- Essex
- Hertfordshire
- Kent
- Lincolnshire (parts)
- Greater London
- Norfolk
- Suffolk
- Rutland
- Surrey
- Sussex
- Huntingdonshire (parts)
- Northamptonshire
- Leicestershire
