The United Kingdom is preparing for its third heatwave of the year, with temperatures set to surge again in the coming days. According to the Met Office, ten areas will see the mercury reach 30°C on Monday, following a historic heatwave that shattered June temperature records last week.
Record-Breaking June Heat
Last week, several June temperature records were broken across large parts of the UK. On 26 June, Santon Downham in Suffolk recorded 37.3°C, surpassing the 37.1°C measured in Cavendish earlier the same day. Although temperatures have since fallen back to near-seasonal norms, the relief is expected to be temporary.
Upcoming Heatwave Less Extreme
The upcoming heatwave is not expected to be as extreme, with humidity levels remaining low. Aidan McGivern, a Met Office meteorologist, explained: “It’s not going to be as hot or as humid so not quite as uncomfortable, and not quite as impactful. It also will not affect the whole of the UK.” He added: “A westerly airflow over the top of that high brings frontal systems into Scotland, and those fronts will ebb and flow. They will bring a lot of cloud, a strong breeze and outbreaks of heavy and persistent rain.”
Temperature Forecast for Saturday and Sunday
On Saturday, the south and southeast of England will see highs of 27°C. On Sunday, the mercury will rise to 29°C in the south, while East Anglia will reach 27°C. However, the heatwave will not hit the north of England, where temperatures are expected to be around 18°C. The Scottish Highlands will only see the mercury hit 14°C.
Monday's Heatwave: 10 Areas at 30°C or Above
Monday will be another hot day, with temperatures predicted to hit 31°C in London, Chelmsford, Rochester, and Guildford. Other areas across eastern and southern England will bask in 30°C highs. The significant contrasts from place to place are due to an “emerging area of high pressure extending over the Azores sitting close to the south and southwest over the weekend,” the Met Office meteorologist said.
The ten areas facing a 30°C heatwave on Monday are:
- London – 31°C
- Chelmsford – 31°C
- Rochester – 31°C
- Guildford – 31°C
- Reading – 30°C
- Basingstoke – 30°C
- Crawley – 30°C
- Canterbury – 30°C
- Ipswich – 30°C
- Sudbury – 30°C
