Despite the recent heatwave bringing temperatures up to a sweltering 32°C, the Met Office has warned that this could all change by Thursday. As Brits enjoy the sunny weather in parks, beaches, and green spaces, a sudden shift in weather could bring thunderstorms that may end the heatwave.
The UK Health Security Agency has issued a Yellow Health Alert for parts of the country due to the extreme heat. Deputy Chief Meteorologist David Oliver from the Met Office warns that Thursday could see heavy showers with up to 30mm of rain in just an hour, and daily totals possibly reaching 90mm in some areas. Alongside this, lightning and hail could also cause significant disruptions.
Here’s the regional breakdown of the current heatwave:
- London: 32°C
- South East: 31°C
- South West: 29°C
- Midlands: 28°C
However, the BBC Weather outlook indicates that Thursday will become unsettled across much of Wales and England as scattered thunderstorms are expected from morning till evening. Cornwall, Devon, far western Wales, Northern Ireland, and Scotland might escape the worst of it, remaining relatively dry.
Looking ahead, Friday and Saturday will see more showers, especially in the north, with sunnier spells further south. The Met Office predicts that while Thursday may start with sunny spells, heavy thundery showers are likely in the south. The weather will turn fresher from the west on Friday and Saturday with a mix of sunshine and showers.
The Met Office has also cautioned that power cuts may occur, and services to homes and businesses could be disrupted. Flooding from heavy rain, lightning strikes, hail, and strong winds could cause significant damage and create dangerous conditions with fast-flowing or deep floodwater.
