Birmingham's current heatwave will officially end at 7pm today (August 14), as temperatures are set to drop below the threshold that defines a heatwave. The city saw highs of 36C yesterday (August 13), but cooler weather is now moving in, with the weekend expected to be significantly more comfortable.
What marks the end of a heatwave?
According to Met Office criteria, a heatwave is declared when a location records at least three consecutive days where the daily maximum temperature meets or exceeds a specific local threshold. In the West Midlands, including Birmingham, that threshold is 26C. Once temperatures fall below this level, the heatwave is officially over.
Today, temperatures are still above the threshold, holding at around 30C before slowly dropping this evening. At 7pm, the temperature will plummet from 28C down to 25C, officially bringing the heatwave to an end.
Weekend forecast: cooler and drier
This is reinforced by the fact that temperatures will not exceed 26C across the coming days. Saturday and Sunday are forecast to reach around 23C to 24C, offering a welcome break from the heat. Monday will briefly reach 26C again, but it won't last, as Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday will drop from 24C down to just 20C.
The Met Office's report for today states: "A dry and bright day for most, though the sunshine turning hazy at times as cloud increases through the afternoon. Perhaps an isolated heavy or thundery shower possible. Feeling hot once again, with light winds. Maximum temperature 32 °C."
For the evening, they add: "Generally dry, with clear spells. A few showers remain possible, perhaps on the heavy side. Remaining warm in urban areas, with a light northwesterly breeze. Minimum temperature 15 °C."
Outlook for the rest of the week
Looking ahead to Saturday, the Met Office predicts: "Dry and bright for many, with plenty of sunshine by the afternoon. Perhaps the odd light shower early morning. A pleasant feeling day, with light winds. Maximum temperature 24 °C."
Their outlook for Sunday to Tuesday continues: "Dry with sunny spells on Sunday and Monday. Gradually turning cloudy through Tuesday, with the chance of showers in places. Temperatures nearer to average, but still on the warm side."
The drop in temperatures will bring relief after the recent heat, with the weekend offering more typical summer conditions for the region. Residents can expect drier and brighter conditions, with the risk of showers returning by Tuesday.
