A significant heatwave is forecast to sweep across England next week, bringing extreme temperatures that could rise between 30°C and 33°C in some areas. This heatwave is expected to last from Tuesday, August 12 to Thursday, August 14. Weather maps have already turned red, indicating the intensity of the heat across the country.
According to reports from the Birmingham Mail, the heat is likely to affect a number of regions, with several counties bracing for intense warmth. The Met Office has also highlighted that the extent of this heatwave remains uncertain, although temperatures are predicted to be notably high.
Scorching Temperatures Expected Across England
The heatwave will bring scorching temperatures starting on Tuesday, August 12. According to WX Charts, Somerset is predicted to experience highs of 31°C, while Devon and Dorset could reach around 30°C. On Wednesday, August 13, Somerset will continue to be at 31°C, while other regions, including Dorset, Wiltshire, Hampshire, and Gloucestershire, will likely see temperatures around 30°C.
Thursday, August 14, will be the hottest day of the week, with temperatures peaking in several counties. Somerset could experience a blistering 33°C, while West Sussex, Dorset, and Wiltshire are forecasted to reach 32°C.
The following counties are set to experience temperatures between 30°C and 31°C:
Devon, Hampshire, Berkshire, Surrey, East Sussex, Kent, Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Worcestershire, Warwickshire, Northamptonshire, Cambridgeshire, Bedfordshire, and Hertfordshire.
Official Heatwave Classification and Long-Range Forecast
The Met Office defines a heatwave as a period when temperatures reach at least 25°C for three consecutive days in most parts of England, or 28°C in London and the South East. Based on the forecasted temperatures, this heatwave is expected to meet the official criteria for classification.
In its long-range forecast for August 11 to 20, the Met Office noted that low pressure systems will likely move northeast over the UK at the start of the period. This could bring heavy rain and the possibility of strong winds to the north-western areas. However, ahead of these systems, hot and humid conditions are expected to dominate parts of England, though the longevity and extent of the hot weather remain uncertain.
The forecast also indicates that high pressure will likely take control by mid-August, bringing dry weather to most of the UK, particularly in the south. However, the north may experience more variable weather with occasional rain and breezy conditions.
The Met Office also stated,
Above average temperatures are more likely than not, especially in the south, where it could also be rather humid.
This suggests that while much of the country will experience hot, dry conditions, northern areas will face a more unsettled period.
