What's happened
On July 19, 2024, the UK recorded its highest temperature of the year at 30.9C in Wisley, Surrey. This heatwave follows a cool start to July, prompting health alerts across eastern and southern England. Cooler weather is expected to return by the weekend.
What's behind the headline?
Impact of the Heatwave
- Health Risks: Heat health alerts are in effect, particularly for vulnerable populations such as the elderly and those with pre-existing conditions.
- Climate Trends: This year's temperatures reflect a broader trend of increasing summer heat in the UK, with more frequent occurrences of 30C+ days since 1993.
- Short-lived Warmth: The heat is expected to be brief, with cooler temperatures returning by Sunday, indicating the transient nature of this weather pattern.
Future Implications
- Public Health Preparedness: The issuance of health alerts highlights the need for ongoing public health strategies to manage heat-related illnesses.
- Climate Change Awareness: The increasing frequency of heatwaves may prompt discussions on climate change and its impacts on weather patterns in the UK.
What the papers say
According to The Guardian, temperatures reached 30.9C at Wisley, marking the hottest day of 2024, while the Met Office emphasized the importance of sun protection during this heat. BBC News noted that despite the warm spell, cooler weather is anticipated soon, suggesting that this heatwave may not meet the criteria for an official heatwave due to its short duration. Sky News highlighted the contrast between the UK's weather and the extreme heat affecting southern Europe, underscoring the variability of climate conditions across regions.
How we got here
The UK has experienced a notably cool and wet July, with temperatures averaging 2C below normal until mid-month. A shift in the jet stream allowed warmer air from northern Africa to bring a brief heatwave, marking a stark contrast to earlier weather patterns.
Go deeper
- What are the health risks associated with this heatwave?
- How does this heatwave compare to previous years?
- What precautions should people take during extreme heat?
Common question
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