The Met Office has issued a warning that heatwave conditions are expected to develop across parts of England and Wales next week, with temperatures potentially soaring to 35°C in some areas. The forecaster has said that a period of hot weather is likely from Monday, with the highest temperatures expected in the South East and East of England.
Heatwave Thresholds and Warnings
According to the Met Office, a heatwave is defined as when a location records a period of at least three consecutive days with daily maximum temperatures meeting or exceeding the heatwave threshold. The threshold varies by county, but typically ranges from 25°C to 28°C. The Met Office has not yet issued an official heatwave warning but has said that the conditions are likely to meet the criteria.
Met Office chief meteorologist Steve Ramsdale said: “Temperatures will rise across much of the UK over the next few days, with the hottest weather expected in the South East and East of England. There is a possibility that temperatures could reach 35°C in some parts of England and Wales, which would be well above the average for this time of year.”
Health and Travel Impacts
The UK Health Security Agency has issued a Level 2 heat-health alert for parts of England, urging people to take precautions such as staying hydrated, avoiding the sun during the hottest part of the day, and checking on vulnerable relatives. The alert is in place from Monday to Wednesday.
Travel disruptions are possible, with Network Rail warning that speed restrictions may be introduced on some routes to prevent tracks from buckling. Passengers are advised to check before travelling. The RAC has also warned that vehicles could be at risk of breakdowns due to the heat, and has advised drivers to check coolant levels and tyre pressures.
Previous Heatwaves and Climate Context
The UK has experienced more frequent heatwaves in recent years, with the hottest day ever recorded in July 2022 when temperatures reached 40.3°C in Coningsby, Lincolnshire. Scientists have linked the increasing frequency and intensity of heatwaves to climate change. The Met Office has said that the current hot spell is due to a plume of warm air moving up from the continent.
The heatwave is expected to peak on Tuesday and Wednesday before cooler conditions arrive later in the week. However, the Met Office has warned that the hot weather could persist in some areas for several days.
Regional Breakdown and Advice
In Wales, temperatures are expected to reach the high 20s Celsius, with the hottest spots in the south and east. The Met Office has advised people to stay out of the sun during the hottest part of the day, between 11am and 3pm, and to wear sunscreen and a hat if they do go outside.
For those living in urban areas, the heat can be particularly intense due to the urban heat island effect, where buildings and concrete absorb heat during the day and release it at night. The Met Office has advised people to keep their homes cool by closing curtains and windows during the day and opening them at night.
