‘Longest heatwave in four years’ to start today as alert issued

Charlie Herbert

The UKHSA has issued a heat-health alert warning for next week

Parts of the UK are set to experience a heatwave over the coming days, the Met Office has confirmed.

Southern and eastern areas in particular can expect to see extreme temperatures.

On Friday, some parts of the country are predicted to hit 28C, with temperatures set to rise over the weekend and into next week.

The hot weather is likely to break the record for the hottest day of 2022 so far, and if it lasts 12 days would be the longest run for four years.

Met Office forecaster Marco Petagna said: “Forecast models suggest mid-30s temperature highs later next week.

“All eyes are focused on a southerly airstream which could waft additional heat to our shores.”

The exception to the rule could be the northwest which is expected to see some cloud and light rain.

High pressure means it's warming up this weekend 🌡️

Friday is looking hot for some, then whilst temperatures may be a touch down on Saturday, they're set to rise again for Sunday pic.twitter.com/4JrPCpUpqR

— Met Office (@metoffice) July 7, 2022

Met Office Deputy Chief Meteorologist David Oliver said: “We’re at the start of a stretch of warm weather for much of England and Wales, that could last for much of next week.

“In the short term, many can expect temperatures in the mid to high 20s Celsius over the weekend, and then in the low 30s Celsius during the start of next week.

“Much of next week will remain warm for the time of year as well as dry and sunny.”

In an update on Wednesday, the Met Office said: “Areas with lower heatwave thresholds, especially southwest England and south Wales are more likely to reach heatwave criteria from Thursday onwards.

“Elsewhere with the higher thresholds, the chance of an official heatwave is more marginal, although it’s possible they could also reach their heatwave thresholds from Sunday.”

As a result of the expected heat, the Met Office and the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued a level 2 heat-health alert warning ahead of the hot weather.

The high level alert will be in place across the East of England, South East and London regions from 9am on Monday 11 July until 9am on Friday 15 July.

Dr Agostinho Sousa, Head of Extreme Events and Health Protection at UKHSA, said: “We want everyone to enjoy the hot weather when it arrives, but also to check in on their vulnerable family, friends and neighbours to make sure they are prepared for the warm conditions ahead.

“High temperatures are predicted for a prolonged period, so make sure to follow our simple health advice to beat the heat, such as covering windows exposed to direct sunlight and making sure that fridges, freezers and fans are working properly.”

For tips and advice on how to deal with heat waves and hot weather you can visit the NHS website.

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