While the hot weather began over the weekend, it is now recognised as a heatwave as temperatures in several UK areas have consistently reached a minimum of 25C for more than three consecutive days. Amid the scorching temperatures, the Met Office has prolonged a heat alert until next Monday, following a temperature reading of 30.7C in Porthmadog, Wales, on Tuesday.
Yellow weather warnings for thunderstorms were issued for northern Scotland and western parts of Northern Ireland until 9pm last night, with the possibility of more rain and thunderstorms later in the week.
On Monday, heavy rainfall led to flooding in many London areas, causing difficulties for vehicles navigating through waterlogged streets.
According to Stephen Dixon, a spokesperson from the Met Office, the remaining days of the week are expected to be hotter than average for this time of year.
However, he also added that the intensity of the extreme heat may slightly diminish, indicating that the heatwave conditions might not persist for much longer.
He said: “The heat is set to drop slightly in coming days. London might not meet heatwave criteria, for example, but there’s a good deal of dry, fine, sunny weather to be had this week with temperatures remaining well above average.”
This comes as the Met Office extended the yellow heat warning as Britain braces for more sweltering heat.
All regions of England have been placed under the heat alert until Monday June 19 at 9am.
As per the new heat alert system, introduced by the Met Office, a yellow alert has several potential consequences.
These include an increased strain on the NHS, along with an elevated health risk for individuals aged 65 and above, as well as those with pre-existing health conditions like respiratory and cardiovascular ailments.
Furthermore, there exists the possibility of indoor spaces, including healthcare and care facilities, becoming excessively warm.
Dr Agostinho Sousa, Head of Extreme Events and Health Protection at UKHSA, said: “In the coming days we are likely to experience our first sustained period of hot weather of the year so far, so it’s important that everyone ensures they keep hydrated and cool while enjoying the sun.
“Forecasted temperatures this week will primarily impact those over the age of 65 or those with pre-existing health conditions such as respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.
“If you have friends, family or neighbours who you know are more vulnerable to the effects of hot weather, it is important you check in on them and ensure they are aware of the forecasts and are following the necessary advice.”
According to weather maps, the end of June will be a scorcher for many parts of the UK as southeastern parts of England will sizzle in 28C.
Meanwhile, London areas will be around 27C on June 26.
Both Manchester and Birmingham will be a bit chillier as the mercury will linger around 23C.
However, Belfast won’t even reach the 20s, as a mild 17C is expected.
Even Edinburgh will be warmer than the capital of Northern Ireland as parts of Scotland will enjoy a balmy 19-20C.
