The United Kingdom is bracing for an exceptionally hot week with scorching temperatures expected to persist following the arrival of a significant ‘historic’ heat dome over the country, leading to what could be the warmest Bank Holiday on record.
Eight locations in the southeast of England officially entered a heatwave status after experiencing temperatures above 27C for three consecutive days. This heatwave intensified further with the setting of a new May heat record, marked by a recorded “tropical night.”
Following the hottest May Day ever recorded at 34.8C in Kew Gardens, another record was broken for the highest daily minimum temperature in May, as temperatures remained above 21.3C at Kenley Airfield in south London.
The UK Health Security Agency issued amber heat-health alerts for five regions in England, cautioning about the potential strain on healthcare services and the increased risk of fatalities, especially among individuals aged 65 and over or with underlying health issues.
Although temperatures are expected to slightly decrease by midweek, the hot weather will persist, with predominantly dry conditions and sunny intervals forecasted. Many areas are still anticipated to experience temperatures in the high 20Cs.
For those struggling to sleep, the Met Office anticipates the heatwave to endure until Sunday, May 31. The official threshold for a three-day heatwave in different regions of the UK varies, ranging from 25C in Scotland to 26C or 27C in southern England and southeast Wales.
Weather maps from the Met Office indicate temperatures reaching 24C in London by 4pm next Sunday, with other regions experiencing highs in the early 20s and lows of 18C in cities like Glasgow and Plymouth.
The Met Office has advised that very high temperatures will persist, with London, the Home Counties, and Cambridgeshire expected to reach a peak of 35C. Temperatures exceeding 30C are also forecasted in eastern Wales and parts of central and southern England.
Experts have warned that more non-summer heatwaves could become commonplace in Britain due to climate change, leading to heightened spring temperatures and more extreme weather fluctuations.
Professor Chris Brierley from University College London highlighted the likelihood of increased heatwaves in May as a consequence of global warming, emphasizing the significant health implications associated with prolonged hot weather.
Another day of sunshine and dry conditions is expected across England and Wales as the heatwave continues, with a slight chance of afternoon thundery showers. Northern Scotland is likely to experience cooler temperatures.
While the east may feel fresher due to an onshore breeze, warm weather is expected to persist elsewhere, with mostly dry conditions prevailing, albeit with occasional showers possible.
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