UK weather forecast today — Met Office says Brits could see temperatures rise further THIS weekend as mercury hits 32C
BRITS could see temperatures rise even further this week with the warm weather likely to peak on Saturday as mercury hits 33C in London, the Met Office reports.
The UK Health Security Agency has issued an Amber heat health alert as temperatures rise across the country, with the Met Office predicting temperatures of more than 30C this week.
The amber heat alert - which covers the whole of England apart from the North East - is in place between 2pm on Monday (September 4) and 9pm on September 10.
And now the hot weather is predicted to peak on Saturday as temperatures hit a possible 33C in London.
This unusual September sunshine is being driven by tropical storms pushing a high pressure system over the UK.
Read our weather live blog for the latest news and updates...
Heatwave to last into the weekend for some
The hot weather is set to last into the weekend, a new Met Office update has revealed.
The Met Office said: "Official heatwave criteria will be met for large parts of southern UK this week, with temperatures likely to remain high into the weekend for much of England and Wales."
Temperatures could exceed 32.2c, the highest recorded so far this year.
However, as the week goes on, the chance of thundery weather is set to increase.
Change how you eat to cool down in a heatwave
Your body warms up as it works to process larger meals.
Metabolic heat is needed to break down food, so eating smaller portions can help keep you cooler.
Components such as lettuce, celery and cucumber have a high water content to keep you better hydrated.
You could also avoid meat – because your body uses extra energy to break it down, causing your body to heat up.
What was the hottest day in UK history?
While temperatures are rising this week, Brits will not see the kind of heat they experienced during last year’s heatwave.
According to the Met Office, July 2022 saw the UK experience its highest temperature on record, breaking 40c.
What is a heatwave?
Temperatures have soared across much of the south this week, leading the Met Office to declare a heatwave in some areas.
But what is a heatwave?
The Met Office defines one as: "An extended period of hot weather relative to the expected conditions of the area at that time of year, which may be accompanied by high humidity."
The definition continues: "A UK heatwave threshold is met when a location records a period of at least three consecutive days with daily maximum temperatures meeting or exceeding the heatwave temperature threshold."
Brits in for an 'uncomfortable' night as temperatures rise
The weather will be "uncomfortably warm" tonight, the Met Office has said in its evening forecast.
An update read: "Remaining dry with clear spells for most, though mist and fog developing in places, especially for southern and eastern regions.
"Another uncomfortably warm night for sleeping."
This comes as the south of England is forecast to see temperatures in the low 30s this week, as a heatwave hits the country.
Longterm forecast for England
The Met Office has provided a long-term look at the weather Brits can expect during, and after, this week’s heatwave.
An update read: “Initially, the very warm, locally hot, and settled weather is likely to continue for much of the UK, albeit with a risk of some isolated thunderstorms.
“Occasional rain is possible in the far north or northwest along with some stronger winds, while some low cloud and fog is possible in coastal regions.
“A breakdown of the very warm spell is then expected to reach the northwest, before edging slowly southeast through this period.
“Some heavy rain is possible in the northwest, followed by fresher weather with showers.
“It is likely that any rain will tend to become lighter and more patchy as it moves southeast, although, again, some isolated thunderstorms may develop to the southeast of this in the still very warm air.”
Key signs of ‘heat exhaustion' as temperatures rise
Here are some symptoms of “heat exhaustion” as temperatures soar this week.
- Feeling confused
- Becoming unresponsive or losing consciousness
- Having a fit or seizure
- Having a temperature above 40C
- Having rapid or irregular breathing
The NHS recommends that you call 999 if you exhibit these symptoms.
What should you do during a heatwave?
It is important to stay hydrated in hot weather and it is good to drink lots of water.
Keeping a bottle of sunscreen with you to soak up those UV rays is also highly advisable as is ensuring you have a hat to prevent sunstroke.
Don’t head out during the hottest hours of the day either if you can avoid it – this is usually from around 11am to 4pm.
Trying to find shade or breezy spots during these times will be your best bet.
If you’re working in an office during the hottest days of the year, read up on your rights and the best tips for surviving in sweltering indoor heat.
You might be using your fan all wrong and making your room even hotter.
Some gadgets could be pushing up your energy bill in a heatwave – here’s how to save.
In pictures: Londoners bask in the sunshine as temperatures rise
It’s safe to say Londoners are enjoying the weather, as thousands of Brits headed out to enjoy the sun yesterday.
Temperatures are expected to hit the low 30s in the coming days, with the Met Office delcaring heatwave conditions have been met in the south of England.
Drop the duvet as temperatures soar
While it's always a nice feeling to snuggle your duvet, it needs to be dumped as temperatures rise.
Thin cotton sheets will absorb sweat and are more comfortable than duvets.
Your body temperature will begin falling during the night and you will hopefully wake up feeling more refreshed.
How much water should you drink during a heatwave?
It goes without saying that drinking water will help you to function properly in the heat.
Cool down from the inside out by staying hydrated with plenty of liquids.
It is recommended to drink between 1.5 and 2 litres per day. Don’t forget your body will lose more water through sweat in summer.
Latest view from space as Saharan dust hits coast of Scotland
The Met Office has shared its latest look at the UK from space as dust from the Sahara is seen off the northwest coast of Scotland.
This comes as temperatures continue to rise across much of the UK.
Is it too hot to walk your dog?
Pets, like us, love to be outside in the sunshine but with their fur they can easily overheat.
Generally speaking, most breeds will be ok up to around 19 degrees celsius to be walked throughout the day and stay happy.
Although owners of obese pups or those with health issues or flatter noses should keep a close eye on their dog.
Up to around 23 degrees it is ok to lightly exercise your dog but any strenuous exercise could put them at risk of heat stroke.
As the temperature climbs to 27 degrees most breeds will struggle to do any sort of exercise, or even spend time in the heat.
And at 32 degrees, heatstroke becomes a major risk for our furry friends.
What to expect in London tomorrow
It's going to be a hot one in the capital on Wednesday.
The Met Office's latest forecast reads: "Any early mist and low cloud burning off quickly through the morning, then fine dry and hot once again. Lighter winds.
"Maximum temperature 32c."
How much does it cost to run an air conditioner?
The cost of running an air con unit depends on whether it's portable or built-in, according to Uswitch.
The price comparison website said a built-in model uses 2.7kilowatts of power an hour - this works out to £56.76 a week based on nine hours of use a day.
Meanwhile, a portable unit uses 1kilowatt of power an hour - or £21.02 a week based on nine hours of use a day.
In pictures: Brits soak up the sun as temperatures rise
The sun is out across England and Brits are making the most of it.
Parks and beaches a packed with sunbathers as the south of England is hit with temperatures in the high 20s.
Heatwave to last into the weekend for some
The scorching weather is set to last into the weekend, a new Met Office update has revealed.
The Met Office said: "Official heatwave criteria will be met for large parts of southern UK this week, with temperatures likely to remain high into the weekend for much of England and Wales."
Temperatures could exceed 32.2c, the highest recorded so far this year.
However, as the week goes on, the chance of thundery weather is set to increase.
Urgent alert as Saharan dust cloud covering the UK could prove deadly – and millions told ‘stay inside’
A Saharan dust plume blowing over the UK could trigger severe asthma attacks, experts have warned.
Vast swathes of the country could witness stunning sunsets tonight, as sand clouds fill the skies during a week of unseasonably high temperatures.
But while it could make for some pretty pictures, the dust cloud could increase the risk of people with asthma and other breathing difficulties having life-threatening reactions, according to charity .
This could be as mild as breathlessness and coughing, or at worst, hospitalisation or a fatal attack.
Change how you eat to cool down in a heatwave
Your body warms up as it works to process larger meals.
Metabolic heat is needed to break down food, so eating smaller portions can help keep you cooler.
Components such as lettuce, celery and cucumber have a high water content to keep you better hydrated.
You could also avoid meat – because your body uses extra energy to break it down, causing your body to heat up.
Today's afternoon forecast
Temperatures are rising across the UK this afternoon, despite cloudy spells in Scotland.
In its afternoon forecast, the Met Office said: "A dry and sunny afternoon for most with largely blue skies.
"A little cloudier across parts of northern and eastern Scotland.
"Feeling very warm with temperatures widely above average for the time of year."
In pictures: Londoners bask in the sunshine as temperatures rise
It’s safe to say Londoners are enjoying the weather, as thousands of Brits head out to enjoy the sun today.
Temperatures are expected to hit the low 30s today, with the Met Office declaring heatwave conditions have been met in the south of England.
What is the weather like in Manchester today?
Mancunians can expect a day of sunshine and warm weather in the mid to high 20s, the Met Office has said.
A forecast read: "Any fog patches soon clearing, then another dry and sunny day with wall-to-wall blue skies for most of us.
"Feeling very warm albeit somewhat breezier than on Monday. Maximum temperature 28 °C."
What was the hottest day in UK history?
While temperatures are rising this week, Brits will not see the kind of heat they experienced during last year's heatwave.
According to the Met Office, July 2022 saw the UK experience its highest temperature on record, breaking 40c.
Met Office What is a heatwave?
Temperatures have soared across much of the south this week, leading the Met Office to declare a heatwave in some areas.
But what is a heatwave?
The Met Office defines one as: "An extended period of hot weather relative to the expected conditions of the area at that time of year, which may be accompanied by high humidity."
The definition continues: "A UK heatwave threshold is met when a location records a period of at least three consecutive days with daily maximum temperatures meeting or exceeding the heatwave temperature threshold."
Brits in for an 'uncomfortable' night as temperatures rise
The weather will be "uncomfortably warm" tonight, the Met Office has said in its evening forecast.
An update read: "Remaining dry with clear spells for most, though mist and fog developing in places, especially for southern and eastern regions.
"Another uncomfortably warm night for sleeping."
This comes as the south of England is forecast to see temperatures in the low 30s this week, as a heatwave hits the country.