New temperature maps in the UK have taken on a deep, blood-red hue as a persistent wave of heat pushes temperatures to 30C and above. Some areas in the country are expected to be hotter than Italy.
The ongoing heatwave over the bank holiday weekend has brought scorching temperatures, making parts of the UK unbearably hot and shattering May records. West London saw the mercury soar to 34.8C on Monday, surpassing all previous records dating back to May 1922. This exceptional heat has been described as a remarkable day by weather forecasters.
London is anticipated to get even hotter by Tuesday, with local heat levels potentially surpassing those in parts of Italy by up to 10C. Weather charts from WXCharts depict almost all of England covered in a menacing red tint, signaling temperatures in the 30C range starting from midday Tuesday. The forecast indicates highs reaching 31C, with temperatures expected to peak at 34C by 4 pm, according to the Met Office.
Meanwhile, Italy, also affected by the European heatwave, will experience temperatures closer to its usual seasonal norms. While some regions in Italy will have temperatures in the low-to-mid 30C range, other areas, like L’Aquila province, will see highs around 24C, offering some relief from the scorching weather.
The cooler temperatures in Italy will extend northward through the center of the country, reaching as far as the Massa and Carrara province. However, the majority of Italy will still face high temperatures ranging from 31C to 35C, highlighting the unusual heatwave for the region. Scientists have issued warnings that extreme heat events in Europe will likely become more frequent in the future.
Health experts advise caution during the heatwave, especially for older individuals who are more susceptible to heat-related health issues even in moderate temperatures. Dr. Anya Gopfert, a Health Protection Consultant at UKHSA, emphasizes the importance of taking simple precautions to stay safe during the warm weather and checking on vulnerable individuals to ensure they are aware of the weather forecasts and following necessary advice.