Record-breaking high temperatures in the UK are expected to subside following a prolonged heatwave. Santon Downham in Suffolk saw the mercury rise to 37.3C, breaking the record for the hottest June day for three consecutive days. The Met Office forecasts peak temperatures of around 33C in southern regions and 30C in the north today, but a cooling trend is on the horizon with temperatures dropping below 30C tomorrow.
The official criteria for a heatwave, spanning three consecutive days of temperatures exceeding the threshold, are likely to no longer apply in most regions. Different counties have varying thresholds, with the south-east set at 28C. Tomorrow’s temperatures are anticipated to be around 21C in East Anglia, 20C in London, 18C in the Midlands, 17C in Cardiff, 15C in Glasgow, and 13C in parts of Northern Ireland.
Met Office Chief Forecaster Andy Page stated that the shift in weather conditions will continue over the weekend, with the southeast retaining warmth for longer. An Amber Extreme Heat Warning is in place for much of Saturday, especially in the low 30s. Western Scotland and Northern Ireland will see rainy spells today, with showers expected to spread south on Sunday.
While the south-east is likely to remain dry over the weekend, there is a slight risk of thunderstorms before temperatures normalize on Sunday and into Monday. Looking ahead to next week, the Met Office predicts a fresher feel across the country, with mostly dry and sunny weather, although some showers are possible, particularly on Tuesday and in the northwest.
