Temperatures across the UK are forecast to drop over the next few days, bringing an end to the recent heatwave that affected areas of southern and eastern England. Humidity levels are also expected to decrease, which may lead to cooler homes and more comfortable nights.
This change follows a period where the UK registered its 34th day of temperatures reaching 30C or higher in a calendar year on Tuesday, equalling a record set in 1995. Forecasts suggest this record could be surpassed as early as next week, with some indicating the potential for a sixth heatwave.
Thunderstorms are anticipated in parts of north-east Scotland later on Wednesday. The Met Office has issued a yellow warning for this area between 10:00 and 21:00 BST, cautioning about heavy, slow-moving showers and potential thunderstorms. These storms could produce up to 50mm of rain in some locations over three to six hours, potentially causing localised flash flooding and affecting transport.
By Thursday, temperatures across the UK are expected to range between 15C and 24C, which is closer to the August average. However, some forecasts suggest that high pressure and southerly winds next week could lead to temperatures rising above heatwave thresholds again, particularly in south-east England where temperatures could exceed 30C.