UK heatwave delivers exceptional sunshine and persistent 30C temperatures

The United Kingdom is basking in an exceptional heatwave, with some regions recording nearly double their average July sunshine in less than two weeks. Southern and south-west England, in particular, have seen about 152 hours of sunshine in the first 13 days of the month. This prolonged sunshine is attributed to persistent high pressure, which suppresses cloud formation.

The heat has been widespread, affecting England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, with temperatures consistently exceeding 30C (86F) for 10 consecutive days in some areas, including London. The heatwave is expected to intensify further this week, with temperatures potentially rising higher as the wind eases and the heat spreads more widely. The threshold for a heatwave is likely to be met again in Scotland, Northern Ireland, and northern England.

Alongside the sunshine, the UK is experiencing unusually dry weather. Some parts of England have recorded only 0% of their expected July rainfall, and one location in Surrey has gone 27 days without any rain. This dryness has led to hosepipe bans for over eight million households in England and poses a continued risk of wildfires. While temperatures may dip slightly over the weekend due to a northerly wind as the high-pressure system shifts, sunny skies are expected to persist, offering only a brief respite from the heat.