Second Heat Dome Set to Bring Record-Breaking Temperatures
New weather maps from WX Charts, using the GFS modelling system, indicate that a second heat dome heatwave will hit the UK starting July 8, with temperatures potentially reaching 41C on July 11. This would surpass the current UK record of 40.3C set in July 2022.
The maps show the country burning red, black, and dark orange as the heat returns, following a scorching end to June that saw temperatures top 37C, sparking school closures.
Met Office Outlook for Early July
The Met Office forecasts: "High pressure remains slow moving over England and Wales, perhaps extending northwards to bring drier and warmer weather to Scotland and Northern Ireland. Winds will be light to moderate for most, though stronger around northern hills and coasts near low pressure systems. Temperatures will rise through the period, perhaps becoming very warm or hot in places."
Extended Forecast Through Mid-July
For the period July 13 to August, the Met Office adds: "High pressure is more likely than low pressure at the start of this period, bringing a greater chance of settled and drier conditions. Occasionally this dry and warm weather could be interrupted by outbreaks of rain with stronger winds, this most likely further north if this occurs. As is typical for the time of year, there remains a risk of heavy, thundery showers during any warm spells."
"Towards the end of July there is a slight preference for a continuation of high pressure to dominate, however confidence at this range is naturally low. In any case, temperatures are likely to be above average overall, with a greater than normal chance of hot conditions developing at times."
BBC Weather Analysis
The BBC Weather team says it will re-examine the expected high pressure regions as they slide around, and see if it's possible to nail down their position better in the longer-range period. They ask: "And based on that, might it eventually turn rather hot again?"
