A potent heatwave is set to sweep across Wales this weekend, as the Met Office warns of 'severe' conditions that will push temperatures into the mid-twenties. The mercury is expected to soar from Friday, peaking on Saturday and Sunday, with potentially scorching highs of 28 degrees Celsius in central and eastern areas.
While coastal regions may see a slight reprieve due to sea breezes, inland Wales will feel the full force of the heat. Overnight temperatures are also set to remain stubbornly high, offering little respite from the warmth. The Met Office has issued guidance urging residents and visitors to take precautions, with particular warnings for vulnerable groups such as the elderly, young children, and those with pre-existing health conditions.
As the heat builds, there is a heightened risk of wildfires in rural areas, prompting calls for increased vigilance from authorities. The prolonged warmth could also cause disruptions to local transport networks, with risks of track buckling on railways and increased thermal expansion on roads.
The high-pressure system responsible for the heatwave will slowly begin to shift eastwards early next week, potentially bringing a gradual easing of temperatures. However, current projections suggest that warmer conditions will persist into the first days of the new week.
Across the UK, Wales is not alone in experiencing above-average temperatures. Southern England can expect similar warmth, although it may not reach heatwave thresholds. Scotland and Northern Ireland are likely to remain milder, with a greater chance of scattered showers in places.