British experts are cautioning about an upcoming heat dome bringing high humidity levels in the midst of an extraordinary heatwave linked to climate change. Daytime temperatures are set to soar to around 38C, with “tropical nights” hindering sleep due to persistent high temperatures in homes. Scientists are forecasting that temperatures could surpass 43C later this summer, turning some residences into “uninhabitable heattraps.” Concerns are also raised about potential strain on emergency services, transportation, and energy systems.
Dr. Akshay Deoras, a research scientist at the National Centre for Atmospheric Science and Department of Meteorology at Reading University, emphasized the severity of the situation, describing it as a heat-dome driven phenomenon that will impact most of southern UK, pushing temperatures to unprecedented levels. Elevated humidity levels are expected to exacerbate the already intense conditions, making it challenging for the body to regulate temperature through sweating, potentially reaching levels previously considered unimaginable in the UK.
An amber alert for extreme heat has been extended by the Met Office until at least the end of Thursday, with temperatures expected to reach the high 30s across the country. This week could see record-breaking temperatures of 38C or 39C in the UK, surpassing the current June record of 35.6C. Prof Liz Bentley, Chief Executive of the Royal Meteorological Society, highlighted the significant temperature deviations witnessed in May and June.
Bill McGuire, professor emeritus of climate hazards at University College London, expressed concerns about the increasing temperatures in the UK due to global heating, noting the potential for temperatures exceeding 43C and prolonged heatwaves. The impact on health, energy infrastructure, and transportation is expected to be substantial, with a rise in homelessness and infrastructure failures.
The heatwave, originating from mainland Europe, is expected to bring temperatures of up to 44C in parts of western France. Dr. Deoras explained that a heat dome, characterized by high pressure systems, is driving the extreme weather conditions, leading to relentless sunshine and compressed warm air. Human-induced climate change is intensifying the situation, with increased heat in the atmosphere making extreme temperatures more severe.
More northern regions of England and Wales are under the Met Office amber alert for extreme heat, with temperatures exceeding 30C in warning areas. Dr. Chloe Brimicombe, a climate scientist at Oxford University, raised concerns about the potential for consecutive months of record-breaking temperatures in the UK.
Richard Allan, a climate science professor at Reading University, highlighted the unprecedented nature of temperatures nearing 40C in the UK. He emphasized the need for urgent action to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to the changing climate to prevent further environmental deterioration.
