An unprecedented heatwave is set to engulf Greater Manchester this weekend as temperatures soar into the high 20s Celsius and beyond. The Met Office has issued an amber warning, advising vulnerable individuals to take extra precautions to avoid heat-related illnesses.
The warning, which takes effect from midday on Saturday and remains in place until Sunday evening, is driven by a high-pressure system dominating the UK's weather, drawing warm air from the continent. Temperatures are expected to reach over 30°C in some areas, particularly on Saturday, with night-time temperatures offering little respite.
While Greater Manchester is under an amber warning, other parts of England, including the South East and Midlands, are experiencing similar conditions. Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland will see slightly cooler temperatures, but many areas will still enjoy pleasant and warm weather – with localised heat warnings possible in southern Wales.
Public health officials and emergency services are urging residents to take precautions, such as staying hydrated, avoiding strenuous activity during the hottest parts of the day (11 am to 3 pm), and seeking shade. They also recommend checking on elderly neighbours, young children, and those with pre-existing health conditions who may be more susceptible to heat-related illnesses.
The current forecast suggests that while Sunday will remain very warm, isolated thunderstorms could develop later in the day, bringing some relief from the heat but also introducing risks of localised flooding. Winds will remain light, below 10 mph, doing little to mitigate the feeling of heat.