The UK has been sweltering in exceptional heat for weeks, with the latest spell of hot weather showing little sign of abating. Temperatures have consistently exceeded 30C across the country, from southern England to Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, with some areas already registering nearly double their usual July sunshine hours.
Locations such as Yeovilton in Somerset and Odiham in Hampshire have seen an astonishing 152 hours of sunshine since the start of the month, significantly above their monthly averages. The prolonged heat has been attributed to persistent high pressure over the UK, which suppresses cloud formation and leads to clear, sunny skies.
Notably, some regions have experienced 10 consecutive days of temperatures reaching 30C or higher, with peak temperatures soaring to 35C on July 9 and 10. The ongoing dry weather has severe implications, with over eight million households in England now subject to hosepipe bans due to dwindling water supplies.
The risk of wildfires across the country remains high due to parched conditions, with Wisley in Surrey enduring a staggering 27 consecutive days without any precipitation. Rainfall levels in Wales and Northern Ireland are also significantly below average, exacerbating the drought.
While a brief respite from the extreme heat is anticipated this weekend, with temperatures unlikely to reach 30C, high pressure is forecast to rebuild over the UK next week, suggesting a return to rising temperatures, no rain, and strong sunshine across most regions.
The Met Office has warned that the heatwave threshold may be met again in Scotland, Northern Ireland, and northern England, with temperatures expected to rise further this week. The ongoing dry spell is set to continue, with parts of England recording 0% of their expected rainfall so far this month.