Britain is bracing for its third heat wave of the year, and this one’s shaping up to be the most extensive yet.
Record-Breaking Heat Takes Hold
According to the Met Office, vast swathes of Britain have met official heat wave criteria — with high pressure dominating and temperatures forecast to soar to 33-34°C in some regions over the next 48 hours. “The current heat wave is more widespread than previous heatwaves this summer,” says Met Office Chief Meteorologist Steve Willington.
Health Alert: Amber Warning Issued
On Friday, the UK Health Security Agency and the Met Office issued an amber heat-health alert for much of England. At this level, health impacts may arise across the population, especially for residents aged over 65 and those with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions.
Dry Skies & Strained Water Supplies
It’s also the driest start to a year since 1976, according to the Environment Agency. In June, nearly three-quarters of monitored reservoirs saw declines, with all regions now below-average in water storage. Continued dry conditions threaten to strain water resources and environmental systems further.
What’s Next for UK Summers?
Dr Tim Fox, co-author of a climate change adaptation report and fellow of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, warns that these heat waves aren’t one-offs. “As UK summers become hotter, with longer periods of high temperature extremes, the impact will reach far beyond personal discomfort,” he says.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
