The UK's summer has been a rollercoaster ride so far, with temperatures plummeting in some areas only to soar in others. But now, the Met Office is warning that the country could be on the cusp of a prolonged heatwave, with southern England set to feel the brunt of it.
Warm air from the continent is expected to sweep in, bringing higher temperatures and potentially reaching into the high 20s or even low 30s Celsius in some areas. The Met Office's long-range forecast suggests that settled, warmer conditions will dominate, pushing aside the more unsettled patterns seen earlier this month.
Residents across the UK should be prepared for above-average temperatures, with northern Ireland and Scotland likely to experience milder increases compared to central and southern England. Wind speeds are expected to remain light to moderate, making the heat feel even more intense.
Health organisations will reiterate advice on coping with hot weather, including staying hydrated, seeking shade during peak hours, and wearing light clothing. Vulnerable groups such as the elderly, young children, and those with pre-existing health conditions will be particularly at risk of heat-related illnesses.
The potential for a heatwave also has implications for various sectors, from agriculture to transport. Water companies may issue reminders about responsible water use, while transport networks could face challenges if temperatures soar, such as speed restrictions on railways.