Amber heat health alerts for almost all of England as next heatwave begins

Amber heat-health alerts have been implemented across most of England starting Tuesday as the country braces for the onset of a new heatwave predicted for the summer. According to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), significant impacts, including an increased risk of deaths, are anticipated across social and healthcare systems.

These alerts will remain in effect until Friday evening, covering high and extreme temperatures expected through the week. Temperatures are expected to reach the low to mid-30s Celsius, with the hottest weather anticipated in east Wales, the Midlands, and central southern England, with temperatures ranging from 27 to 30C (81-86F).

East Anglia, London, and southeastern England will experience slightly cooler temperatures, ranging from 22 to 26C. The heatwave is expected to intensify and spread further on Wednesday, with temperatures exceeding 30C in areas stretching from South Yorkshire to East Wales, Somerset, and East England. Some warmth may spread north into northern England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, with temperatures ranging from the low to mid-20s.

By Thursday and Friday, extreme heat is likely in parts of the Midlands, eastern, and southeastern England, with temperatures potentially reaching 35 or 36C. Overnight temperatures will remain relatively high, making for uncomfortable sleeping conditions. There is also a possibility of a tropical night, where temperatures remain above 20C all night, in southeastern England.

While the heat will not be as intense or humid as previous heatwaves in June and July, the Met Office may issue extreme heat warnings, suggesting potential concerns for infrastructure like the transportation network and power lines. This is the first time in recorded history that the UK is expected to record temperatures above 35C for four consecutive months, highlighting an unprecedented year.

At the beginning of the week, the National Drought Group announced that 71.3% of England was in drought status. Over 45 million people now reside in drought-affected areas, with over 27 million under water restrictions. The announcement comes as there has been no rain forecasted for most of the week across England and Wales. However, low-pressure weather fronts bringing rain-bearing systems from the Atlantic are expected to move in from Sunday, with a chance of rain across Wales, southern England, and possibly a few showers in Scotland and Northern Ireland.

However, this rain is not expected to be heavy or persistent, and most areas will remain largely dry. Long-term forecasts suggest that high pressure and more dry conditions will dominate the final week of August.