Thunderstorms are set to hit London next week, according to BBC Weather experts, following a heatwave that saw the UK record its eighth day at or above 34C in a calendar year, breaking previous records set in 1976 and 2020.
Thunderstorm Timings
The latest forecast shows thunderstorms are expected on Thursday night (July 16) from 7pm to midnight, returning between 2am and 5am on Friday (July 17). Further storms are forecast throughout Friday afternoon and evening, with another hitting on Saturday (July 18) from 2pm to 7pm.
This comes after Londoners experienced one of the 'biggest and longest storms' in living memory on June 23. Writer Adam Schwartz shared on X: "It’s 3.45am in London and it’s been thunderstorming for almost two straight hours. One of the biggest and longest storms I can remember in my almost 35 years in this city." Another onlooker described the storm as "like something off a horror movie."
Heatwave Records
The upcoming thunderstorms may provide a break from the recent heat, which saw temperatures peak around 35C. On Thursday, July 9, the UK recorded its eighth day at or above 34C in a calendar year, surpassing the previous high of seven days set in 1976 and 2020, according to Met Office data.
Police Urge Caution
The Met Police are urging the public to avoid non-emergency 999 calls amid a surge during the hot weather and World Cup. Deputy Metropolitan Police commissioner Matt Jukes said on LBC Radio: "We’re going to see more calls. We’re going to see more drinking... Please hold back on the calls we don’t need to take. Officers out there are melting in the heat but they will be there to come to you if you need us." The force emphasized that 999 should only be used for immediate danger to life, threats of violence, or crimes in progress.
BBC Weather Forecast for London
The BBC Weather forecast for London shows a gradual cooldown: Friday (July 10) high 30C with sunny intervals; Saturday 30C; Sunday 29C; Monday 27C; Tuesday 29C; Wednesday 30C; Thursday 29C with thundery showers; Friday 27C with thundery showers; Saturday 24C with thundery showers; Sunday 25C with sunny intervals; Monday 25C with light rain; Tuesday 26C sunny; Wednesday 27C with drizzle; Thursday 28C sunny.
