Record-Breaking Heat Continues Across the UK
The United Kingdom's provisional June temperature record, established on Wednesday afternoon in Gosport, Hampshire, at 36.1C, is anticipated to be exceeded for a second consecutive day. Forecasters predict temperatures could climb to 37 or 38C on Thursday, intensifying the current heatwave.
The Met Office has maintained its red and amber extreme heat warnings, signaling ongoing risks such as disruptions to transportation and heat-related health issues. A shift in wind direction is expected to bring relief starting Friday, with temperatures returning to seasonal averages by next week.
Thursday's Forecast: Even Hotter for Some Regions
Thursday is set to deliver another day of intense heat across most of England and Wales, with temperatures widely reaching the low to mid-30s Celsius. Central southern England, the Midlands, and parts of east and north-east Wales are expected to experience even higher temperatures than Wednesday, potentially reaching 37 or 38C in central southern England, which would eclipse the previous day's record.
Scotland and Northern Ireland will also see warmer conditions, with many areas reaching 25 to 30C. However, northern Scotland will remain cooler, with highs around 15-20C, closer to average for the region.
Travel Disruptions and Warnings Remain
The transport network is likely to face continued disruption, with train operators advising passengers to travel only if absolutely necessary. The Met Office's red extreme heat warning, covering the south Midlands, south-east Wales, and southern England, is valid until 23:59 GMT on Thursday. Amber extreme warnings, the second-highest level, will persist for parts of England through Saturday.
While most of the UK will experience sunshine, heavy showers and thunderstorms are forecast to develop in south-west England later on Thursday. A yellow warning from the Met Office is in place from 18:00 to 23:59 GMT for this area, with the potential for gusty winds and localized flash flooding.
Gradual End to the Heatwave
Friday will see hot and humid conditions persist in central and eastern England, with temperatures remaining in the low to mid-30s. Heat-related impacts are still possible, with an amber extreme heat warning issued for areas including Greater Manchester, the Midlands, eastern, and south-east England, valid until 23:59 GMT on Friday.
Conversely, fresher air will begin to move into Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, causing temperatures to drop to the low to mid-20s. By Saturday, this cooler air will extend further eastward, bringing down temperatures. Nevertheless, East Anglia and south-east England may still experience temperatures above 30C, with an additional Met Office amber warning in effect for extreme heat throughout the day.
The heatwave is anticipated to conclude for the entire UK on Sunday, as fresher air encompasses all regions and temperatures settle between 18 and 26C.