London is set to experience its sixth heatwave of the year this weekend, arriving earlier and hotter than previously forecast, with temperatures potentially reaching 32C – surpassing parts of Spain, according to The Met Office and BBC Weather.
Heatwave Timing and Temperatures
Both The Met Office and BBC Weather predict the mercury will hit 28C or more for three consecutive days, meeting the official heatwave threshold. The Met Office expects this to begin on Saturday, August 8, while BBC Weather points to Sunday, August 9. This is a shift from earlier forecasts that suggested the heatwave would not arrive until the following week.
The heat is set to intensify mid-week, with Wednesday, August 12, and Thursday, August 13, peaking at 32C. This makes London as hot as or hotter than Barcelona, which will see slightly lower temperatures during the same period. In Palma, the Mallorcan capital, temperatures will be more in line with London's.
Potential Relief for Gardeners
There may be a silver lining, especially for gardeners. Tuesday, August 18, could bring some rainfall, though meteorologists caution it would be light – no downpours – and forecasts are based on probability. BBC Weather currently indicates a 74% chance of rain early that day. However, given the forecast is far out, it could change quickly.
Drought Risk Continues
The Met Office has not ruled out further heatwaves in September. Its long-range forecast states: “Temperatures will probably be above average and some spells of hot weather and heatwaves are possible, especially in the south.” This suggests the drought condition could persist.
Martin Padley of Thames Water commented: "It's been bone dry, we've not been able to abstract an awful lot of water." Residents are advised to carry water and stay hydrated as the heatwave takes hold.
