This weekend, the UK is set to experience a brief but intense hot spell, with temperatures climbing into the high 20s and low 30s Celsius. According to forecasts, Sunday and Monday will be the peak days, with London hitting a sizzling 33°C (91.4°F), Manchester reaching 26°C, Glasgow at 22°C, and Belfast around 21°C. This surge in warmth is partly due to warm air migrating from Europe, but it’s not without its complications. The Met Office warns that the rising temperatures could be accompanied by severe thunderstorms and heavy rainfall, especially in central and northern regions.
On Friday, the weather will start off wet and cloudy in southern and eastern parts of England, but expect a shift towards drier conditions with sunny spells as the day progresses. This improvement will see temperatures gradually warm up throughout the day. Saturday will bring a mix of cloudy and humid weather, with brighter spells in the north and light showers continuing there. The temperature will rise into the 20s across England and Wales by the evening, setting the stage for the upcoming heat.
The hot spell, while significant, is short-lived. As Met Office spokesperson Nicky Maxey notes, “The hot spell is short-lived but quite intense… Temperatures are due to peak on Monday and rapidly return to average on Tuesday and Wednesday.” So, while Sunday and Monday are expected to be the hottest, with temperatures soaring to 33°C in London, 26°C in Manchester, 22°C in Glasgow, and 21°C in Belfast, the heat will be fleeting. Storm Debby, which recently affected the southern US, is influencing the jet stream and pushing warm air towards the UK, but it also brings the possibility of thunderstorms and unseasonable winds in western areas.
The increased temperatures will lead to higher pollen counts and UV levels. The Met Office advises the public to use sunscreen and cover up during midday hours to protect against the high UV levels. Although the heat is substantial, it’s not classified as a heatwave, which requires temperatures to exceed a certain threshold for three consecutive days.
Looking ahead, temperatures will drop on Tuesday as the hot air recedes and more typical August weather returns. The UK can expect a shift back to unsettled conditions with occasional showers and cooler temperatures, though there will be intervals of sunshine between weather systems. For the latest updates and to stay informed about weather changes, checking the Met Office’s website or mobile app is recommended.
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