The scorching heat that has gripped the UK is set to intensify over the next two days, with forecasters predicting temperatures will soar in London and Cambridgeshire, potentially reaching as high as 35C. The prolonged nature of this heat event has drawn comparisons to the record-breaking summer of 1976.
On Wednesday, Heathrow Airport reached a sweltering 33.8C, while Cardiff Bute Park in Wales hit 31.2C. Scotland's Aboyne and Northern Ireland's Helen's Bay recorded temperatures of 29.0C and 27.1C respectively. Forecasters predict that Thursday and Friday will see temperatures climb further, with parts of the country facing a prolonged period of heat.
A persistent area of high pressure is responsible for the dry and settled conditions, allowing the heat to build extensively. By Friday, this high-pressure system will shift northward, extending the heat into southern Wales and the Midlands, where temperatures are expected to be in the low to mid-30s. Cooler easterly breezes will offer some respite to eastern regions.
Amber heat health alerts remain in effect for parts of the Midlands, eastern, and southern England until 12th July, while Yellow alerts are active across northern England for the same period. These warnings signify a potential for significant impacts on health and social care services, including an increased risk of mortality, particularly among the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions.
The National Fire Chiefs Council has issued a warning regarding the heightened risk of wildfires due to the dry and hot conditions. The public is strongly advised to avoid using disposable barbecues in open countryside, parks, and moorlands. Many areas across the south, east, West Midlands, and southwest of England have already officially declared a heatwave, having met or exceeded temperature thresholds for three consecutive days.
Looking ahead, temperatures may dip below 30C after Sunday, but are expected to remain well above the July average of 18-23C for much of next week. This extended duration of high temperatures could see many parts of the UK meeting or exceeding heatwave criteria for up to 10 days, making it one of the longest-lasting heatwaves since the historic summer of 1976.