Scorching Summer Set to Return
London may be known for its higher-than-average temperatures, but this summer has been exceptional. After weeks of scorching 30C+ heat and sweltering commutes, the capital is bracing for another heatwave. BBC Weather forecasts a high of 31C on Saturday, August 1, with sunny spells and light cloud, following nearly a fortnight of mid-to-high 20s conditions.
Rain Expected Before the Heat
However, not all days will be bright. A band of rain is expected to move in across London early on Sunday, July 26, bringing light showers and a breeze through Monday night. The wet weather may linger until August 1, with the sun emerging around 4pm. Netweather predicts an even hotter day, with maps showing a peak of 31C.
Met Office Long-Range Forecast
The Met Office's long-range forecast for July 24 to August 2 agrees with above-average temperatures and rainy spells. It states: "Northern and northwestern areas will be cloudier with occasional patchy rain or drizzle. Into the weekend and perhaps the start of next week, more unsettled weather with rain at times, especially across northern parts of the UK. This rain may very well reach southern areas too, but could become more light and patchy here."
Confidence becomes lower as August approaches, but there are signs that high pressure will return, bringing dry conditions, especially in the south. Winds will be mostly light or moderate, occasionally fresh around northern coasts. Temperatures are expected to be near or above normal, warmest in the south, perhaps becoming very warm again by the start of August.
Potential for Thunderstorms
Higher pressure is more likely than lower pressure through August, the Met Office added, meaning potential for more hot spells, especially across the south. However, the authority warned of occasional thunderstorms. Parts of London were battered by thunder and lightning in late June after temperatures rose to sizzling levels, causing flash flooding in some streets and Tube stations, and sparking a house fire in Tooting. Thunderstorms are likely after a heatwave because the atmosphere becomes unstable when very warm air near the surface sits beneath much cooler air higher up.
