UK Heatwave Warning Issued by Met Office

Date: June 21, 2024

Reporter: Jordan Coussins

The Met Office has issued a heatwave warning for the UK, with temperatures expected to rise significantly next week. The surge in temperatures is anticipated to start on Wednesday, coinciding with the arrival of Glastonbury Festival attendees.

To qualify as a heatwave, conditions must remain consistently high for at least three days. By mid-next week, some regions could potentially meet these criteria. Forecasts predict temperatures reaching the mid-20Cs, particularly in the West Midlands, which could see temperatures of around 26C on Wednesday.

Neil Armstrong, Met Office Chief Forecaster, stated that while the UK will see a brief unsettled period on Friday and Saturday, fine weather will resume by Sunday, continuing into next week. He highlighted that central and southern regions might experience temperatures high enough to meet heatwave definitions.

Despite the increase in temperatures, festival-goers at Glastonbury in Somerset should prepare for a “strong possibility” of showers and possibly even heavy thunderstorms later in the week. Met Office spokesman Graham Madge noted that a high-pressure system is responsible for the rising temperatures, which will peak towards the end of the weekend. However, the duration of this fine weather remains uncertain.

Samantha Hughes from the RNLI emphasized the importance of water safety during the heatwave, advising gradual entry into water to prevent cold water shock.

Festival attendees and residents are advised to stay informed of local weather updates.