BBC Weather currently forecasts rainfall in London on Monday, August 17, potentially ending a dry spell that has seen temperatures soar to 35C this week. The rain, if it arrives, is expected to come in showers, accompanied by far more pleasant temperatures with highs around 23C and light winds, ideal for cooling off.
According to the latest forecasts, this week's heatwave could peak on Thursday, August 13, with the mercury reaching as high as 35C. Wednesday, August 12, is predicted to see temperatures climb to 32C. For today, Tuesday, August 11, conditions will remain dry with highs of 25C expected between 3pm and 4pm.
Heatwave Definition and Forecast Details
The Met Office defines a heatwave in London as three consecutive days with temperatures exceeding 28C. Based on this definition, the period from Wednesday, August 12 to Friday, August 14 will officially qualify as a heatwave. Beyond that, temperatures are expected to return to the mid-20s, with highs between 23C and 26C for the foreseeable future.
The current BBC forecast extends only to Monday, August 24, leaving open the possibility that heatwaves could make a comeback. The Met Office's long-range forecast also indicates that more hot spells could occur as late as September.
Long-Range Outlook and Potential for More Heat
According to the Met Office's long-range forecast, "High pressure will probably be dominant in the vicinity of the UK during this period, meaning periods of dry weather for many regions. However, some more unsettled or changeable interludes are probable at times, bringing showers or some longer spells of rain, although overall rainfall amounts are more likely to be below average than above. Temperatures will likely be above average and some spells of hot weather and heatwaves are possible, especially in the south."
This suggests that while the immediate forecast brings some relief with cooler temperatures and possible rain, the broader pattern indicates that above-average temperatures and potential heatwaves could persist into September, particularly in southern regions.
