The Met Office has issued a warning that parts of the UK could be heading into a heatwave as high pressure builds over southern England, bringing with it potentially scorching temperatures. Forecasters say the shift towards warmer weather is becoming increasingly likely after a spell of more mixed conditions. But what exactly does it take to qualify for a heatwave?
Across the country, different regions have their own temperature thresholds - for instance, parts of England require temperatures above 28°C for three consecutive days, while in Scotland and Northern Ireland it's 25°C. Wales falls somewhere in between at 25°C as well.
The south-east is considered most at risk, with potentially record-breaking temperatures forecasted. The Met Office long-range forecast suggests that the coming period will see a mix of weather initially, but conditions are expected to become more settled and warmer over time - particularly for central and southern areas.
While some regions may experience an increase in wind speeds during transient showery periods, overall wind speeds should remain light to moderate. With heatwave potential on the horizon, locals are being reminded of vital safety tips: stay hydrated, seek shade when necessary, wear loose-fitting clothes, and don't forget sunscreen.
Regional variations suggest not just southern England will feel the heat - Wales and parts of Northern Ireland could also see warmer temperatures. Scotland's outlook is more mixed, with eastern areas possibly seeing sunny spells, while others might experience more unsettled weather. Residents are urged to monitor local forecasts for the most up-to-date information.