An intense heat advisory has been extended in anticipation of a heatwave in the UK that could see temperatures rise to a record-breaking 38C. The Met Office has forecasted that London may experience temperatures as high as 38C on Wednesday and Thursday, with the hot weather expected to persist until at least Thursday, prompting weather alerts, health advisories, and concerns for vulnerable individuals.
The Met Office has upgraded an amber extreme heat warning from Sunday to cover the period from Monday through Thursday. Meteorologists predict a high likelihood of surpassing the record for the hottest June temperature of 35.6C, set in 1976 in Southampton.
Meteorologist Jonathan Vautrey from the Met Office highlighted that the extreme heat warning, particularly affecting central southern regions, could lead to heat-related issues among the population throughout the week, with temperatures climbing into the mid-30s, which is extraordinary for June.
The warning emphasizes potential health risks due to the heat and an increased possibility of water-related accidents. The alert spans Monday and Tuesday for most of southern England, central and eastern Wales, and a large portion of the Midlands, while Wednesday and Thursday’s alert extends to parts of Greater Manchester, Yorkshire, and Cheshire.
Residents in the affected areas are advised to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged sun exposure, and refrain from outdoor activities between 11am and 3pm, according to the Met Office. Additionally, the UK Health Security Agency has issued separate amber heat health alerts covering most of England from Monday morning through Friday night, along with a yellow heat alert for northeast England during the same period.
As the heatwave grips Europe, Rome is expected to reach 37C and Madrid 39C on Monday. France anticipates highs of 40C, with emergency services and military forces on high alert for wildfires.
The rise in extreme weather events, such as record-breaking temperatures, heatwaves, floods, droughts, and storms, is becoming more frequent globally due to the climate crisis. A recent Met Office report projects an 86% likelihood that a year between 2026 and 2030 will be hotter than 2024, the current warmest year on record. The report also indicates a 91% chance of global temperatures temporarily exceeding 1.5C above pre-industrial levels in the next five years.