The UK has been experiencing a disappointingly cool June, but that is set to change soon. According to the Met Office, a long-awaited shift in the UK’s weather is on its way, with a chance of a heatwave hitting as soon as next week. In contrast to last year, which was the hottest June the UK has ever seen, this year’s summer has got off to a slow start, with cold northerly winds coming in from the Arctic keeping temperatures down.
However, warmer and more settled weather is expected to develop over the weekend and into next week, with southerly winds bringing hot, continental air and a rise in temperatures.
Current Weather Conditions
As of Thursday, June 20, 2024, the far north and northwest of the UK will be cloudy with some rain at times. Elsewhere, it will remain dry with clear periods. A few fog patches are expected to form later. Plenty of warm evening sunshine is expected, although a weakening band of cloud and patchy rain will sink southeast across Scotland. Otherwise, it will be a fine night with clear spells, turning chilly across rural parts of England and Wales, with some fog patches forming.
Weather Forecast for the Rest of the Week
On Friday, there will be some rain in the north and west, and perhaps in the far southeast. Warm sunshine is expected elsewhere, with isolated showers but mostly fine this weekend. Temperatures are expected to become very warm in the sunshine.
Heatwave Expected Next Week
The Met Office has defined a heatwave as a prolonged period of abnormally high temperatures, relative to the expected conditions at that given time and place. The Met Office has a defined temperature threshold for each county in the UK, and if the daily maximum meets or exceeds this value for at least three consecutive days, it is classed as a heatwave. These threshold values range from 28C in London and some Home Counties to 25C in northern England, Devon and Cornwall, Scotland, Northern Ireland, and most of Wales.
According to the Met Office, there is around a 20% chance that we could see heatwave conditions developing by the middle of next week. Temperatures for the rest of this week will potentially creep up above average, although nights may still remain chilly. In the UK, a heatwave is defined as a prolonged period of abnormally high temperatures, relative to the expected conditions at that given time and place. The Met Office has a defined temperature threshold for each county in the UK, and if the daily maximum meets or exceeds this value for at least three consecutive days, it is classed as a heatwave.
Heatwave Thresholds for Different Regions in the UK
The heatwave threshold values for different regions in the UK are as follows:
- London and some Home Counties: 28C
- Northern England, Devon and Cornwall, Scotland, Northern Ireland, and most of Wales: 25C
These threshold values are based on the expected conditions at a given time and place, and if the daily maximum meets or exceeds these values for at least three consecutive days, it is classed as a heatwave.
Preparing for a Heatwave
During a heatwave, it is essential to stay hydrated, avoid the sun in the middle of the day, and apply sun cream. If you have any health conditions that could be exacerbated by hot weather, it is essential to take extra precautions. The NHS advises people to avoid alcohol, caffeine, and sugary drinks, which can dehydrate you. Instead, drink plenty of water or diluted fruit juice, and eat regularly to maintain your energy levels.
It is also essential to take care of vulnerable people, such as the elderly and those with underlying health conditions. Check on them regularly, and ensure they have access to shade and cool drinks. If you are concerned about someone’s health, contact a healthcare professional immediately.
Conclusion
The UK is set to experience a heatwave next week, with temperatures expected to rise significantly. While the heatwave is welcome news for many, it is essential to take precautions to stay safe during hot weather. Stay hydrated, avoid the sun in the middle of the day, and take care of vulnerable people. The heatwave is a reminder of the importance of preparing for extreme weather events, which are becoming increasingly common due to climate change.
Sources ——- https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/weather/forecast/uk https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cHRWKILmHc0 https://news.sky.com/story/uk-weather-temperatures-set-to-rise-with-chance-of-heatwave-developing-by-next-week-13154704 https://news.sky.com/story/uk-weather-europe-swelters-in-heatwaves-while-uk-remains-cool-whats-going-on-with-the-weather-13154223 https://www.metoffice.gov.uk https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/healthy-body/heatwave-how-to-stay-safe-in-hot-weather/
