Great white sharks could potentially frequent British beaches due to a prolonged marine heatwave, raising safety concerns. The Met Office warned of upcoming extreme marine heat levels, leading to warmer waters that could attract Mediterranean species like great white sharks and box jellyfish to UK shores.
Oceanographer Jim Dale highlighted the likelihood of native marine species dying off, such as cod fish, while new species, including sharks and jellyfish, could emerge. The ongoing heatwave has expanded to northern UK regions, with temperatures expected to reach 34C. The UK Health Security Agency issued amber heat health alerts for the Northest of England until Sunday night.
Rising sea surface temperatures in the British Isles, particularly along Welsh and English coasts, have been observed, with some areas up to 5C warmer than usual. This trend raises concerns of an impending extreme marine heatwave, a rarity in the UK.
Mr. Dale emphasized the potential risks posed by warmer coasts, making beaches hazardous for families. The proliferation of poisonous algal blooms in warmer waters could pose serious threats to beachgoers. He warned of the increasing presence of great white sharks and other Mediterranean species attracted by the abundant prey in UK seas, heightening dangers for families.
The Met Office noted that the marine heatwave, triggered by a recent heat dome, is the most intense of the year, impacting ecosystems and wildlife. Additionally, high-pressure systems are expected to bring warmer temperatures to Scotland and northern England, with temperatures possibly reaching the mid-20sC in Northern Ireland and Scotland. Parts of southern and eastern England could experience temperatures up to 34C by late afternoon.
While temperatures may cool in the south and Midlands on Saturday, thunderstorms are anticipated. Deputy Chief Forecaster Tom Crabtree highlighted the continuation of warm weather next week, especially in the southwest, with the likelihood of meeting heatwave thresholds in some areas. The forecast indicates fine, dry, and very warm weather for most of the UK, with potential thunderstorms in the south and southwest regions.