The UK is bracing itself for a prolonged period of scorching heat, with temperatures set to soar above 30 degrees Celsius in parts of the country by this weekend. A 'heat dome' is developing over Western Europe, bringing record-breaking temperatures to countries like Spain, France, and Germany.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued heat health alerts for much of the Midlands and south-east England until 8pm on Monday, warning residents to take precautions against the rising mercury. Temperatures are expected to reach between 25C and 28C across these areas by Thursday, with sunshine forecasted.
While other regions will experience cloudier conditions and some rain, Northern Ireland, Scotland, northern and western England, and Wales will see temperatures ranging from 17C to 24C – closer to the seasonal average for mid-June. A further band of wet weather is anticipated on Friday for these areas.
The heat is expected to intensify across southern and eastern England on Friday, with temperatures potentially reaching between 27C and 31C. There may be a slight dip on Saturday, but the mercury is set to rise again on Sunday and Monday, possibly hitting 31C or even 32C in some locations.
The 'heat dome' phenomenon is a static area of high pressure over Western Europe, which traps warm air beneath it and causes temperatures to surge. As this high-pressure system subtly shifts, some of the exceptionally hot air will be directed towards the south-east of the UK, contributing to the elevated temperatures.
This situation follows an unusually warm May, where records were broken across much of the UK. Wales and Ireland also registered their highest May temperatures, reaching 32.9C in Cardiff and 30C in County Clare, respectively.