The UK is bracing itself for a second intense heatwave in quick succession, as new weather maps reveal the potential for a “heat dome” to trap soaring temperatures across the country. After a brief respite from last week’s scorching weather, forecasts indicate that the nation could face its hottest days on record by mid-July.
Last week’s heat was caused by a “heat dome” — a high-pressure system that stalls over a region, trapping hot air and causing temperatures to spike. This phenomenon brought extreme heat not only to the UK but across much of western Europe.
According to the GFS weather model, temperatures in the UK are expected to climb steadily starting July 8, reaching 35°C. By July 10, highs could soar to 40°C, with some areas potentially hitting 41°C on July 11. These projections are supported by WX Charts and the BBC Weather team.
MeteoGroup, which provides data to BBC Weather, warns of “a few notable high temperature spikes” this summer, and forecasters expect an above-average risk of heatwaves lasting through to the end of August. They predict consistently above-average temperatures throughout July and August with several significant bursts of heat impacting the UK and Europe.
Experts highlight the underlying role of climate change in driving these extreme weather events. Dr. Theodore Keeping, an extreme weather and wildfire researcher at Imperial College London, emphasizes that the link between climate change and worsening heatwaves is firmly established. He notes, “Continued fossil-fuel emissions are directly responsible for the disruptions people are experiencing this week in their homes, schools, and workplaces.”
The reality of “heat days” is becoming as familiar as snowy school closures for today’s younger generations, Dr. Keeping adds.
Dr. Akshay Deoras, a senior climate scientist at the University of Reading, stresses the urgent need for cutting greenhouse gas emissions, warning that without drastic reductions, global warming will only accelerate.
The Met Office’s extended forecast echoes these warnings, indicating that high pressure will dominate weather patterns into the second week of July, especially across England and Wales. The likelihood of above-normal temperatures remains high, increasing the chances of further hot spells.
As the UK faces this second wave of extreme heat, preparations and awareness will be key in managing the impacts of a rapidly warming climate.