Birmingham is set to swelter under a scorching 35C later this week, marking the peak of a rapid heat surge that has already pushed temperatures to 28C today (August 11). The Met Office forecasts a climb to 33C tomorrow, followed by a blazing 35C on Thursday, before a sharp drop brings an overcast and cooler weekend.
Heatwave peaks on Thursday
According to the Met Office, today will bring "another primarily sunny day with just a little wispy high cloud at times," with a maximum temperature of 28C. Conditions will be slightly breezier than Monday but "becoming very warm by the afternoon." Overnight, clear periods and variable cloud will keep urban areas rather warm, though rural spots could see lows of 14C.
Tuesday's forecast promises "dry with lots of strong sunshine, temperatures rising rapidly during the morning," reaching a maximum of 33C. High-level cloud may make skies "a little hazy at times," but overall it will feel "very warm and locally hot."
Sharp cooldown expected
The Met Office's outlook for Thursday to Saturday indicates "hot or very hot on Thursday with plenty of strong sunshine," aligning with the 35C peak. However, a significant shift arrives Friday, as conditions turn "a little fresher and cloudier," with a possible odd shower on Saturday.
This dramatic temperature swing follows a pattern of rising heat across the region, with residents advised to stay hydrated and seek shade during peak hours. The weekend's overcast skies will offer relief, but the long-range forecast suggests more unsettled weather could follow.
Long-range outlook
Looking further ahead, the Met Office's long-range forecast notes: "Sunny spells and showers in the north on Saturday, with mainly dry weather in the south. Through Sunday and into the start of the following week, Atlantic frontal systems will probably approach or move across the UK, bringing some rain in places, perhaps heavy at times."
Temperatures are expected to hover near normal or slightly above, with high pressure likely to bring drier conditions later in the period. However, "some rain is still possible at times, particularly in the north, together with a risk of thunderstorms in the south," and temperatures will likely remain above average.
For Birmingham, this means a brief but intense heat spike, followed by a return to more typical summer weather. The contrast between Thursday's 35C and the cooler, cloudier weekend will be stark, underscoring the volatility of the current weather pattern.
