The UK is preparing for a significant heatwave, with temperatures predicted to reach as high as 34°C in parts of southern England this coming Monday. This intense heat follows a scorching June that saw the year’s highest temperature of 33.2°C recorded in Charlwood, near Gatwick, last weekend.
After a recent cooldown due to rainfall, weather maps from WXCharts reveal a pronounced rise in temperatures expected over the weekend, particularly in southern regions. The Met Office confirms Monday will bring the peak of the heatwave, with central and eastern England experiencing widespread highs above 30°C and southern areas, including London and Cambridge, possibly reaching 34°C.
This surge in temperature is driven by a dominant high-pressure system over Europe, creating a ‘heat dome’ effect that traps hot air over the UK. While southern England basks in intense heat, the northern parts of the country will enjoy cooler temperatures influenced by Atlantic air.
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Although the UK’s heatwave is notable, it remains mild compared to extreme conditions unfolding across Europe, where Spain is forecast to endure a blistering 47°C weekend. Italy faces melting roads due to relentless heat, and Greece continues to combat severe wildfires amid the heatwave.
BBC weatherman Darren Bett highlights the developing heatwave across England and east Wales but notes that Scotland and Northern Ireland will remain relatively cooler. “Temperatures will rise over the next few days, peaking on Monday with the southeast seeing highs near 34°C,” he explains.
Looking ahead to the weekend, Met Office meteorologist Alex Deakin forecasts a warm but variable start, especially in northern areas: “Central Scotland and parts of Northern Ireland will start grey and damp, but conditions will brighten by Saturday afternoon with lighter winds in the south.”
Deakin also predicts that much of England and Wales will enjoy sunshine and dry conditions, with temperatures climbing to around 29 or 30 degrees in and near London. Despite some lingering rain in northern England and Wales, a warm, humid, and balmy weekend is expected for many.
Sunday is set to continue the warm trend with humid nights and temperatures approaching 31°C around the capital, although northern regions will remain cooler with pockets of cloud and occasional showers.
As the heatwave builds, residents in southern and eastern England should prepare for some of the hottest temperatures recorded so far this year.