The United Kingdom is bracing for potentially record-breaking high temperatures in June, with forecasts indicating that parts of England could experience temperatures soaring up to 38C in the coming days.
According to the Met Office, a significant heatwave is expected to sweep across the country over the weekend, particularly affecting the southern and southeastern regions, meeting official heatwave criteria.
On Sunday, temperatures are projected to reach around 32C in the southern and southeastern areas of England, with a possibility of hitting 34C in some southern parts on Monday.
The Met Office has raised the likelihood of breaking the UK’s June temperature record, currently standing at 35.6C since 1957 in London’s Camden Square and Mayflower Park in Southampton, to 40%. The chances of surpassing the June maximum temperature record for Wales are comparatively lower.
Advanced weather modeling by forecaster WXCharts suggests that London could experience highs of 38C on Tuesday, June 23, potentially setting a new June temperature record. Additionally, five counties, including Essex, Hertfordshire, Kent, Surrey, and Suffolk, may see temperatures soar to 36C or above.
Deputy Chief Forecaster at the Met Office, Gregory Wolverson, anticipates that the southern and southeastern regions of England will meet heatwave criteria soon, with temperatures possibly reaching the low 30s in the warmest spots. There is a 40% probability of surpassing the current UK June maximum temperature record.
Amidst these forecasts, amber weather alerts for extreme heat have been issued across 51 areas in parts of East of England, London, South East England, South West England, and Wales, from 1am Monday to 11pm Tuesday. The forecaster warns of potential health risks from extreme heat, including sunburn, heat exhaustion, and other heat-related illnesses.
Travel disruptions are expected, with delays likely in road, rail, and air travel. Furthermore, the possibility of system failures due to heat sensitivity could lead to power outages and service interruptions in some homes and businesses.