Britain is heading for another burst of scorching heat this weekend, with temperatures expected to climb into the low 30s across parts of the south east and the government issuing a five-day health alert warning of a “greater risk of death to the vulnerable.”
The Met Office has said the heatwave threshold — defined as three consecutive days at or above set temperature thresholds — may be reached in the south by Saturday, as high pressure builds across Europe and funnels warm air northwards. London is forecast to reach 29C tomorrow, with the heat expected to hold until at least Tuesday next week. Chelmsford is set to go even further, with temperatures expected to hit 30C on Friday.
The warmth will make parts of Britain hotter than popular holiday destinations this weekend. London is set to outstrip both Ibiza and Faro, each forecast at 27C on Sunday, though France and Malta are expected to go further still, with highs of around 40C anticipated in those countries.
The government has issued health alerts covering the East Midlands, East of England, London and the south east, warning of increased risks for vulnerable people during the warm spell. The UK Health Security Agency has advised the public to stay hydrated, avoid the sun during peak hours and keep homes cool and well-ventilated.
Met Office deputy chief forecaster Tom Crabtree said: “This week’s contrasting weather of both heat, rain, and potential thunderstorms is a result of a low pressure system influencing the UK from the northwest. The southerly flow stalls a front over the west of the UK whilst allowing temperatures to build in the South East. Friday is set to be the warmest day of the week, but it’s important to note that peak temperatures could be impacted by cloud cover.” The Met Office added that the “extent and longevity” of the heatwave was still being determined.
Not all parts of the country will bask in the warmth. Wales and some parts of England are expected to see showers today, while the north and west are likely to remain closer to seasonal averages throughout the period. Thunderstorms are also anticipated on Friday, particularly across the south east, as humidity builds ahead of the weekend peak.
The Met Office has urged those heading to the coast to remain cautious, warning that sea temperatures are not yet at their mid-summer peak and may be considerably cooler than the air temperature suggests.
The incoming heat follows just three weeks after a record-breaking spell in which England and Wales recorded their hottest ever May days, with highs of 35.1C and 32.9C respectively.
