The UK is bracing for potentially record-breaking heat as yellow health alerts are issued for central and southern England. Temperatures could soar to 30C in some areas, putting vulnerable individuals at risk of heat-related illnesses. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has warned that the extreme weather conditions will have minor impacts on health and social care services.
The hot spell is expected to affect regions including the East and West Midlands, eastern England, London, south-east England, and south-west England. Many parts of the country are experiencing an unusually dry period, with a drought declared for significant areas of north and mid-Wales yesterday. Millions of customers are currently under hosepipe bans due to prolonged dry weather.
Forecasters attribute today's surge in temperatures to a shift in winds allowing heat to build up in southern areas. Central, southern, and eastern England can expect highs between 25C and 28C, while isolated spots may reach 30C. Wales is forecast for similar conditions, with north-eastern areas reaching the high 20s.
By Sunday afternoon, temperatures are expected to fall as fresher winds return. However, a weekend of rain is on its way, but amounts are predicted to be limited in southern and eastern England, offering little relief from the drought conditions affecting large parts of the country. Computer models suggest a potential return to hot and dry weather next week, with temperatures possibly climbing back into the 30s Celsius.
The prolonged heatwave has persisted for nearly three weeks in some areas, with communities in south-east England struggling to cope without significant rainfall. While the upcoming rain is expected to bring some respite from the sun, it may not be enough to substantially alleviate drought conditions.