After a lackluster start to the first half of the summer vacation period due to unfavorable weather conditions, summer is poised to make a strong return in the upcoming days. Following the recent occurrence of Storm Floris, which brought unusually strong winds to the UK, another storm is approaching, expected to introduce a heatwave.
Tropical Storm Dexter is currently traversing the Atlantic and is anticipated to impact the northern regions of the UK by late Saturday. While Scotland might experience unstable weather conditions with wind and rain, England and Wales could witness a significant rise in temperatures, potentially leading to the declaration of a heatwave.
The Met Office forecasts that the remnants of Tropical Storm Dexter will transport warm air from the southwest across the UK, creating the possibility of scorching hot conditions. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued a yellow heat health warning for a large portion of the country starting from Monday, August 11, as the hot weather front approaches. This warning coincides with advice for the public to avoid barbecues during the upcoming heatwave.
Temperatures are expected to surpass 30°C in certain central, southern, and eastern regions of England on Monday and Tuesday, while Wales is projected to reach 27°C, indicating a significant heatwave. Although only specific parts of England are officially included in the heat warning, residents across the UK should anticipate a notable increase in temperatures.
If the current predictions materialize, Wales is also likely to experience a heatwave, with temperatures forecasted to exceed 25°C for three consecutive days. Met Office Deputy Chief Meteorologist, Steven Keates, mentioned the expected temperature surge in England and the possibility of prolonged high temperatures, particularly in the southern regions.
The week ahead is set to be warm, with Tuesday anticipated to be the peak heat day, with temperatures reaching the mid to high-twenties nationwide. Cardiff and Newport are expected to enjoy highs of 27°C, with a slight decrease in temperature towards the end of the week but a lingering warm spell for most of the month.
The extended forecast from the Met Office suggests that high pressure systems will dominate once again, bringing warm and humid conditions to extensive areas of the UK. As the month progresses, temperatures are likely to remain higher than the seasonal average, indicating an extended period of warm weather for the region.