The Met Office has issued amber and red weather warnings for extreme heat across Wales and parts of the UK, with temperatures expected to soar above 40C this week. The warnings, described as part of a "severe weather event," indicate that "an exceptional spell of hot and humid weather is expected across this region, with impacts to the general population highly likely."
Amber Warning in Effect Tuesday
An amber warning for extreme heat is in place throughout Tuesday until 11:59pm. The warning covers several areas in Wales, including Blaenau Gwent, Bridgend, Caerphilly, Cardiff, Merthyr Tydfil, Monmouthshire, Neath Port Talbot, Newport, Powys, Rhondda Cynon Taf, Torfaen, and the Vale of Glamorgan. The Met Office stated: "Following very warm weather on Sunday, very high temperatures, accompanied by high humidity, are expected on Monday and especially Tuesday and will likely bring widespread impacts to people and infrastructure. In addition to high daytime maxima, temperatures overnight will remain very warm, especially in larger urban areas."
Red Warning Issued for Wednesday and Thursday
A red weather warning for extreme heat has been issued from Wednesday at 9am until Thursday at 9pm. The Met Office said it is plausible that temperatures for June 23 could reach peaks of 45C in England, 41C in Wales, 38C in Scotland, and 30C in Belfast. BBC weatherman Derek Brockway, analyzing the latest UKV model from the Met Office, expects temperatures on Thursday to reach 38C in Wales.
Travel Disruptions and School Closures
Travel delays are expected, with Transport for Wales cancelling rail services this week due to the forecasted weather. Great Western Rail has also advised customers to only travel if essential on Wednesday and Thursday. Schools and workplaces are implementing measures to ensure safety during the heatwave. Headteachers' leaders noted there is no legal 'upper limit' for temperature in schools, and any closure would be an absolute last resort.
