The Met Office has issued an alert for 'exceptional heat' across the UK, with weather maps turning red as temperatures are forecast to 'rise rapidly'. Extreme heat alerts are in place for much of the country, including Lincolnshire, London, and Bristol, where highs of up to 39C are expected on Thursday, June 25.
Met Office Warning
In a new alert issued on Monday afternoon, June 22, the Met Office stated: 'A spell of exceptional heat is set to develop this week.' A post on X, formerly Twitter, added that temperatures are 'forecast to rise rapidly and potentially challenge or exceed long-standing June records.' A Met Office blog post explained that this week's heatwave could see the hottest June day on record.
Potential Record-Breaking Heat
Met Office experts noted: 'While hot spells are not unusual in summer, conditions of this magnitude remain relatively rare, particularly in June. The current UK June temperature record stands at 35.6C, last recorded in 1976 and 1957, and could be challenged during this spell.' This follows the hottest May day record being broken last month.
Health Risks Due to Humidity
Meteorologists have explained that the heat will feel more intense due to high humidity levels. 'Humidity plays a key role in how we experience heat. When moisture levels in the air are high, it becomes more difficult for the body to cool itself through sweating. This increases the risk of heat stress and associated health impacts,' they said.
