The United Kingdom is facing the possibility of experiencing its hottest June day ever recorded, as meteorologists predict temperatures could soar up to 38C in certain parts of England in the coming days.
According to the Met Office, intense heat is anticipated to build up over the weekend, particularly in the southern and southeastern regions, meeting the official criteria for a heatwave.
Forecasts indicate peak temperatures of approximately 32C in southern and southeastern England on Sunday, with some areas in the south potentially reaching 34C by Monday.
The Met Office has raised the likelihood of breaking the current June temperature record of 35.6C, set in 1957 at Camden Square in London and Mayflower Park in Southampton, to 40%. There is also a chance of surpassing the maximum June temperature record for Wales.
Advanced weather models by WXCharts suggest that London could experience highs of 38C by 6pm on Tuesday, June 23, potentially setting a new June temperature record. Additionally, counties such as Essex, Hertfordshire, Kent, Surrey, and Suffolk may see temperatures exceeding 36C.
Gregory Wolverson, Deputy Chief Forecaster at the Met Office, predicts that the southern and southeastern regions of England are likely to meet heatwave conditions soon, with temperatures possibly reaching the low 30s in the warmest areas. He also notes a 40% chance of surpassing the current UK June maximum temperature record.
Amidst these predictions, amber weather alerts for extreme heat have been issued for 51 areas across Eastern England, London, Southeast England, Southwest England, and Wales, starting from 1am Monday to 11pm Tuesday. The Met Office warns of potential health risks due to extreme heat, including sunburn, heat exhaustion, and other related illnesses.
Travel disruptions are expected, with possible delays in road, rail, and air travel. There is also a heightened risk of heat-sensitive systems failing, leading to power outages and service disruptions for some households and businesses.
