Multiple heatwaves are set to hit the UK before the end of August, according to the Met Office and BBC Weather. The second half of summer could bring further hot spells, with forecasters warning that temperatures will remain above the seasonal norm.
Met Office Forecast for August
The Met Office forecast suggests a changeable start to August, but with above-average temperatures and the chance of further hot spells. Their outlook from August 2 to August 12 states: "Higher pressure is generally more likely than lower pressure through August. This means settled and dry weather will likely prevail, especially across the south."
BBC Weather Presenter's Warning
BBC weather presenter Ben Rich said: "Temperatures are most likely to remain above the seasonal norm, especially in England and Wales where further hot spells or heatwaves are possible into early August." This comes as the UK has already experienced three heatwaves this summer.
Record-Breaking Heat
In its latest State of the UK Climate report, the Met Office says weather that used to be classed as extreme is becoming the "new normal." The UK has seen six days reaching 35°C or above this summer so far, surpassing the previous record of five days set in 1976. The number of days reaching 34°C or above has hit nine, beating the previous record of eight days set in 1976.
Netweather TV Analysis
Ian Simpson of Netweather TV explained: "The recent exceptionally hot weather looks set to be over with for the second half of July. The medium range forecast models had previously shown potential for high pressure to push back eastwards across the British Isles, bringing potential for a fourth heatwave, but it now looks probable that high pressure will remain centred to the west of Britain during the coming week."
He added: "That said, temperatures will still mostly be above average for the time of year, particularly in the south, where there is potential for them to nudge the low 30s Celsius, particularly towards the end of next week. Temperatures are likely to fall close to the long-term normal around 26-27 July, when the weather finally looks set to turn more unsettled with low pressure."
Extended Outlook
The Met Office outlook continued: "There still could be rain at times across northern parts, but should become less frequent where dry and warm conditions extend northwards. Although most areas may see dry weather for much of the period, occasional summertime thunderstorms are possible on some days given the right ingredients. Winds are expected to be generally light or moderate, and occasionally fresh around coastal areas. Temperatures will very likely remain above normal, with potential for further hot spells, particularly in the south."
