The Met Office has issued its verdict on a potential June heatwave for London, highlighting a north-south divide in the UK's weather. While London and the South East could experience another burst of summer heat, an official heatwave has not yet been declared.
Official Heatwave Criteria
In London, a heatwave is officially declared when the daily maximum temperature reaches at least 28°C for three consecutive days. Currently, the Met Office does not consider the upcoming warm spell to meet this threshold.
Weather Shift Ahead
After a week of cloud, showers, and below-average temperatures, forecasters predict a major shift as high pressure builds across the UK, bringing warmer and more settled weather. This change has sparked hopes of a second early-summer heat spell, following the unusually warm conditions in May when temperatures climbed well above the seasonal average across much of southern England.
Meteorologist's Insight
Met Office Deputy Chief Meteorologist Greg Wolverson explained that the improving conditions are driven by a shift in the jet stream. "As we move into the weekend, the jet stream temporarily shifts northwards, allowing high pressure to build from the south," he said. "This brings a drier and warmer weekend for many. Saturday will see a more settled day across southern areas, with some sunny spells. Temperatures could reach 22-23°C. Sunday looks set to be widely dry across the UK, with further sunshine and temperatures rising. The warmest spots are likely across southern England, where temperatures may reach 23-24°C."
North-South Divide
The warmer conditions are expected to linger into next week, but with a notable north-south divide. The Met Office stated: "Southern and south-eastern areas are likely to experience longer spells of dry and warm weather into next week, while the north and west see more cloud and rain." There is even potential for "very warm or locally hot weather" later next week if high pressure strengthens again, with central, southern, and eastern England most likely to see the highest temperatures.
Water Safety Warning
Despite the warmer air temperatures, forecasters warn those planning trips to the coast not to be caught out by cold water temperatures. Ashley Jones, Head of Water Safety and Education at the Royal Life Saving Society UK, urged caution after recent drowning tragedies during the half-term hot weather. "Despite warmer air temperatures, open water remains dangerously cold – even for experienced swimmers," he said.
London and South East Weather Forecast
- Friday, June 12: Mostly cloudy start with patchy drizzle, then brighter skies with warm sunshine and breezy conditions. Highs of 23°C. Evening clear, lows of 10°C.
- Saturday, June 13: Dry and sunny with lighter winds, warmer feel. Highs of 23°C.
- Sunday, June 14: Early mist clears to leave dry, bright, and warm day with sunny spells. Highs around 24°C.
- Monday, June 15: Largely dry with variable cloud and sunny intervals. Temperatures edging higher.
- Tuesday, June 16: Settled with sunny spells, light breezes, and above-average temperatures.
