The Met Office has issued a warning about warm overnight temperatures causing uncomfortable conditions in homes due to high humidity levels intensifying the heat.
Currently, Britain is experiencing a heatwave with record-breaking temperatures and red alert warnings in place, making this heatwave feel more extreme than previous ones due to different weather conditions.
The Met Office has emphasized the concern over nighttime temperatures, as warm and humid air makes it challenging for both people and buildings to cool down effectively.
A red alert heat warning for large parts of England indicates that temperatures are expected to remain high overnight, with some areas not dropping below the low 20s Celsius, accompanied by high humidity levels.
Met Office forecaster Aiden McGivern highlighted the significant impact of high overnight temperatures, stating that buildings and homes struggle to cool down due to the lingering warmth after dark, exacerbated by the high humidity levels.
The heatwave is perceived as hotter than previous ones primarily due to elevated humidity levels, which contribute to a higher heat index, emphasizing the combined effect of heat and humidity on severe impacts.
Beyond just temperature readings, the Met Office focuses on the heat index, which considers the combined impact of heat and humidity, stressing the potential for severe consequences.
McGivern pointed out the prolonged heat retention in buildings due to the cumulative effects of daily heat exposure, emphasizing the challenges posed by the heatwave.
The soaring temperatures this week are attributed to a “heat-dome” settling over western Europe, bringing extreme conditions not only across the continent but also in the UK.