Amber heat warnings have been issued across southern England as a second heatwave in three weeks approaches. Temperatures are expected to climb to 30C (86F) on Friday, rising to 32C on Sunday and 34C on Monday. In May, the UK's temperature record for that month was broken with highs of 35C.
Health warnings in place
Amber heat health warnings, which indicate risk to the wider population and not just vulnerable people, have been issued by the UK Health Security Agency for eastern England, London, the south-east and the south-west from Thursday morning until Tuesday evening. Yellow alerts are also in place for the East and West Midlands.
The Met Office said some areas in southern England are likely to meet heatwave criteria by Saturday, with more areas following on Sunday. A heatwave is defined as a period where a temperature threshold is met for three consecutive days, ranging from 25C to 28C across different parts of England.
Regional temperature differences
While southern England bakes, the rest of the UK is expected to experience cooler conditions. Glasgow's maximum temperature is forecast to be eight or nine degrees lower than London's. The hottest temperatures are expected to reach 32C on Friday in East Anglia, 32C in the south and south-east on Sunday, with a potential for 34C in the same areas on Monday.
The climate crisis is increasing the likelihood of extreme heat. The UN climate chief described May's heatwaves across Europe as a "brutal reminder of the spiralling impacts of the climate crisis".
Met Office forecasts
Gregory Wolverson, the Met Office's deputy chief forecaster, said: "This week's weather reflects a contrast we often see in summer, with more unsettled conditions passing to the north-west of the UK while heat builds in the south and east. As we move towards the weekend, we'll see conditions become more widely settled and temperatures rise all round." He added that many parts of southern and eastern England are likely to see temperatures high enough to meet heatwave thresholds.
Wolverson noted a 40% chance of exceeding the current UK June maximum temperature record of 35.6C, set in 1957 and 1976. He also mentioned that a combination of cloudy conditions and high humidity could make the heat feel "rather oppressive", with a chance of thunderstorms.
Water safety advice
The Met Office reiterated its water safety advice after 16 people died in water during the May heatwave. The service reminded that the sea is still cold at this time of year, which can cause cold-water shock at temperatures below 15C. They also warned of strong currents and hidden obstacles, advising people to swim only with others and to float on their backs if they get into trouble.
Samantha Hughes, the national water safety partner at the RNLI, said: "If you find yourself struggling in the water, remember to Float to Live: tilt your head back so your ears are submerged, relax and control your breathing. You may need to gently use your hands to help you stay afloat, and it's OK if your legs sink – everyone floats differently. Where possible, always choose a lifeguarded beach, and swim between the red and yellow flags. In a coastal emergency, remember to call 999 for the coastguard."
