Forecast Predicts Record-Breaking Temperatures
The Met Office has issued a weather forecast amid reports that the UK could experience the most intense heatwave of the summer so far. After three previous heatwaves, the country is bracing for potentially the hottest one yet. According to maps from WX Charts using the GFS model, temperatures will skyrocket to 33°C by July 27, before reaching a peak of 38°C on July 29 – the hottest of the year so far. The maps show the country turning a deep red, burgundy, and black, as a sweltering hue engulfs the whole of England, including the West Midlands conurbation and Birmingham.
Met Office and BBC Weather Outlook
The Met Office forecast for July 22 to July 31 suggests more “above average” conditions are possible. The BBC Weather team has also paved the way for a heatwave. BBC presenter Ben Rich, a weather lead, said: “The UK's weather may turn a little more changeable during the second half of summer with spells of rain featuring in some long-range forecasts. There is also a high chance that temperatures will remain largely above average during late July and August and further heatwaves cannot be ruled out.” The Met Office's forecast from July 27 to August 2 concurs, stating: “Temperatures are expected to be near or above normal, warmest in the south, perhaps becoming very warm again by the start of August.”
Climate Change and the 'New Normal'
In the latest State of the UK Climate report, the Met Office says weather that used to be classed as extreme is becoming the “new normal.” It states that the climate we knew in the 20th century is now a thing of the past, with the UK warming approximately 0.25°C per decade since the 1980s. This trend underscores the increasing frequency and intensity of heatwaves.
Short-Term Weather Details
In the short term, Monday will be cloudier than recent days, though sunny spells will develop through the afternoon. The cloudiest conditions will be in the north and northwest, with some light rain or showers, according to the Met Office. Tuesday will see variable amounts of cloud with some good sunny spells, feeling rather warm in the sunshine and light winds. The outlook for Wednesday to Friday adds: “Staying settled through the week with patchy cloud and the odd shower in the north. Staying warm to very warm with temperatures in the mid to high 20s.”
