Heatwave Continues in Wales With Thunderstorm Threat
Another heatwave is expected to hit Wales this week, lasting longer than the previous two this year, but the Met Office warns it may not be all sunshine, with showers and thunderstorms possible.
Temperatures are not expected to reach the record-breaking highs seen in June, and there will be fewer exceptionally warm nights. Along with the rising temperatures, the heatwave will bring extensive sunshine and light winds, according to the Met Office.
Temperature Forecast and Duration
The Met Office states: "Temperatures are expected to climb into the low 30s Celsius across much of southern England from the start of the week, with some locations potentially reaching 34-35°C later in the week." Over the coming weeks, many places in Wales are likely to experience several consecutive days of hot weather.
Unlike the hot spells in May and June, hot weather is expected to continue throughout this week and next week. However, the Met Office predicts: "The very warm conditions are likely to last into the weekend, but with increasing humidity and a growing risk of showers or isolated thunderstorms. Into early next week, temperatures are likely to trend down slightly, although many areas will stay dry, fine and still warm."
Daily Breakdown
On Tuesday, July 7, warm weather continues with many areas reaching over 20°C, and some regions almost hitting 30°C. Newport will see temperatures increase to 27°C around 4pm, and Monmouth will reach 29°C in the late afternoon. The Met Office forecast says: "A very warm day follows with plenty of strong sunshine, though cloud may push into the far north."
Wednesday, July 8, will see temperatures reach the high 20s across Wales mid-week. The Met Office states: "Any mist and fog will lift quickly, leaving a bright and sunny day for all. Feeling hot in the strong sunshine, especially in the east. Maximum temperature 30°C."
Thursday and Friday, July 9-10, will be the hottest days of the week as temperatures hit over 30°C. People are warned to remain safe during the hot weather. Over the weekend, there will be spells of strong sunshine with temperatures climbing and starting to feel increasingly hot. Consecutive days of temperatures hitting 30°C and over are expected this week.
Long-Range Outlook
From Saturday, July 11, to Monday, July 20, the long-range forecast states: "Southern areas are likely to start this period hot, with heatwave conditions persisting. To the north, an Atlantic frontal zone will introduce somewhat cooler conditions, with the potential for scattered thunderstorms to develop just ahead of this."
Into the following week, high pressure is likely to build to the north or northwest of the UK, though its exact orientation is uncertain. This would bring a lot of dry weather for many areas, but perhaps an increased chance of showers or thunderstorms in the south compared to previous days.
By Sunday, July 12, temperatures will remain above average in many areas, still in the high 20s. Met Office maps show that temperatures are predicted to remain high throughout next week as heatwave conditions slightly cool off.
