The UK is poised to experience its hottest day of the year so far, with temperatures potentially reaching up to 32°C in London by Tuesday. This surge in warmth could bring an official heatwave over the next few days, as predicted by forecasters. Over the weekend, many parts of the country enjoyed clear, dry conditions, leading people to seek out the summer sun at beaches and rivers for relief from the heat.
The current record for the hottest day this year stands at 31.9°C, which was recorded at St James’s Park in London on July 19. The recent spell of high pressure and warm air from the south has contributed to the unusually high temperatures, creating dry and sunny weather across the UK. This trend is expected to continue, with temperatures in many areas set to be significantly above average for this time of year.
According to Met Office forecaster Simon Partridge, there is a strong possibility that this period of warmth could officially qualify as a heatwave. The criteria for a heatwave include recording temperatures above a certain threshold for at least three consecutive days. For most of the UK, this threshold is 25°C, but it rises to 28°C in London and surrounding areas where temperatures are generally higher.
While the warm weather is expected to persist into the early part of the week, there is a forecast for potential thunderstorms and heavy rain starting on Wednesday. This could bring a sudden change to the weather, though there remains some uncertainty about the extent and location of these storms. Despite the possibility of showers, temperatures are likely to remain high as August begins.
The UK is set to experience a significant heatwave with temperatures reaching into the low 30s. Although thunderstorms may bring a temporary break from the heat, overall temperatures are expected to stay above average. This pattern reflects a broader trend of increasing temperatures, highlighting ongoing changes in the climate.