The United Kingdom is bracing itself for a scorching heatwave this weekend, as the Met Office predicts soaring temperatures of up to 30°C. The UK Health Security Agency has issued a rare amber alert, indicating the severity of the weather conditions. In fact, certain regions in Britain are expected to be even hotter than popular holiday destinations such as Marbella, Ibiza, and Tenerife.
This early in the year, the first heat health warning has been released at an amber level alert, affecting six regions across the country. The anticipated temperatures have the potential to break the current record for the hottest day of 2023.
The reason behind this sudden surge in heat is a “plume of warm air” moving in from the south, causing certain parts of the UK to experience higher temperatures than popular Mediterranean vacation spots.
However, alongside the heatwave, the Met Office has also issued a yellow weather warning for thunderstorms in England and Wales starting from 9 am on Friday until Monday morning. On Saturday, specific areas in the UK might witness heavy rainfall, with the potential for 30-40mm of rain per hour. Additionally, hail is expected to make an appearance.
According to Oli Clayden, a forecaster, “This weekend will also see hail mixed in with strong gusts of wind and rain hit parts of the country.” Despite these additional weather conditions, the temperatures are still anticipated to rise to their peak.
Let’s take a closer look at the regions that will experience the hottest weather and the timing of the heatwave:
Scotland
Expect sunny and warm weather on Friday afternoon following some early cloud cover. Temperatures in certain areas may reach highs of 22°C. Saturday is forecasted to be very warm and sunny, with the potential for temperatures to reach 24°C by around 4 pm in the Scottish Highlands. However, there is a risk of heavy and possibly thundery showers on Sunday and Monday, although temperatures could still reach similar highs.
North East
The low cloud cover will dissipate by Friday afternoon, revealing prolonged periods of sunshine. The center of the region, around York, can expect highs of 18 or 19°C. Saturday will likely be even hotter, with temperatures peaking at 24°C in certain areas. Sunny spells will be interrupted by heavy, thundery showers on Sunday and Monday.
North West
Friday is expected to be warm, with highs of 23°C in and around Liverpool by 4 pm. Although slightly breezier, especially along the coasts, it will still be a pleasant day. Saturday will bring even hotter temperatures, with winds easing and temperatures peaking at 27°C in Preston as humidity rises overnight. While Sunday and Monday might witness some heavy showers, possibly thundery at times, temperatures will remain in the mid-20s.
Wales
Tomorrow afternoon, temperatures are set to peak at 26°C in cities like Cardiff and Swansea, accompanied by plenty of sunshine. However, there is a risk of showers in the southern parts of Wales. Saturday will bring even warmer weather, with rising mercury levels and easing winds. Although temperatures may dip slightly, the overall feeling will be hotter. Towards the end of the weekend, heavy showers, potentially thundery, might make an appearance.
Midlands
Friday will be a warm day with abundant sunshine. Expect highs of 25°C in Worcester by 4 pm. Saturday afternoon will be even hotter, with temperatures reaching 27°C in places like Leicester, Stratford-upon-Avon, and Coventry. As the weekend progresses, there is a chance of heavy showers, possibly thundery, although temperatures will remain in the mid-20s on Sunday and Monday.
London and South East
Friday afternoon will witness prolonged periods of sunshine, with temperatures likely to reach 24°C in London and 26°C in Brighton by 4 pm. As Saturday arrives, the English capital will experience a spike in temperatures, reaching 28°C, accompanied by soaring humidity levels across the region. The weekend also brings the possibility of heavy and thundery showers. Temperatures will remain in the mid to high 20s on Sunday and Monday.
South West
Cloud cover is expected to gradually increase throughout the day on Friday, with a few afternoon showers and windy conditions. Temperatures in places like Yeovil will peak at around 27°C. Saturday will feel very warm as the winds ease, and the region will enjoy temperatures in the mid-20s. Sunday will see a slight cool-down before temperatures pick up again on Monday, reaching around 24°C. There is a chance of heavy showers, similar to other parts of the country.
In conclusion, a scorching heatwave is set to hit various regions in the United Kingdom this weekend, with temperatures expected to surpass those of popular Mediterranean holiday destinations. While the country basks in the heat, thunderstorms are also on the horizon, bringing heavy showers and possible hail. Stay prepared, stay cool, and stay safe during this record-breaking heatwave.