A new heatwave could be approaching the UK, with temperatures possibly reaching 38C according to weather forecasts. Yesterday marked the hottest day of the year and the hottest June day on record, with Santon Downham recording 37.3C due to an ongoing heatwave. The Met Office issued rare red weather warnings for extreme heat in England alongside thunderstorms and lightning that caused damage in some regions.
Although the peak temperature is expected to drop below 30C soon, the GFS weather model predicts a four-day heatwave starting on July 8. Temperatures may reach 30C to 33C across central and southern England on July 8, with even higher temperatures in western and south-eastern areas.
On July 9, temperatures could rise as high as 36C near London and reach 35C across southern and eastern England, with parts of Wales also experiencing 30C temperatures. The following day, July 10, is expected to see scorching highs of 38C in western England and the south, with most areas in England and Wales surpassing 30C.
The heatwave is forecasted to continue on July 11, with temperatures potentially hitting 38C in the north-west, Midlands, Yorkshire, and the south-east. Even areas near the England-Scotland border could see temperatures exceeding 30C. The UK, especially England, is projected to experience temperatures well above the seasonal average during this period.
The GFS weather model indicates that 17 English counties could reach 38C or higher. The Met Office anticipates “hot” conditions in July with a possibility of “thundery showers.” The forecast for July 11 to 25 suggests above-normal temperatures and a chance of settled and drier conditions, with occasional outbreaks of rain and stronger winds, particularly in the north. Unsettled conditions may develop later in the period with a risk of heavy and thundery showers.