A yellow heat health warning is in effect for much of England, including Somerset, as a new wave of hot weather is expected early next week. Issued by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), the warning covers London, Yorkshire and the Humber, East Midlands, East of England, South East, and South West regions. It runs from 12pm on Monday until 6pm on Wednesday.
The UKHSA cautions that the soaring temperatures may put considerable strain on health and social care services during this period. Vulnerable groups, particularly individuals aged 65 and over or those with underlying health conditions, could face increased health risks and higher mortality rates.
This alert follows three earlier heatwaves in the UK this summer. Last month, a combination of amber and yellow heat health warnings was issued when temperatures in several regions exceeded 30°C.
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Somerset is forecast to experience highs approaching 30°C early next week. On Tuesday, Bath could reach 30°C, while Taunton, Glastonbury, Yeovil, and Weston-super-Mare are expected to see temperatures near 29°C.
The Exeter-based weather service reports that Friday will bring sunny spells to much of southern and central England, with temperatures reaching the mid-20s Celsius. Saturday will remain largely dry with sunshine across England and Wales, though some rain is expected in northern Scotland. Sunday will see a weather front moving in from the west, bringing rain to Northern Ireland, parts of Scotland, and possibly northern England in the evening, while central and southern areas stay dry and sunny.
From Sunday onwards, temperatures will climb as warm air is pulled up from the southwest by the remnants of Tropical Storm Dexter. Monday and Tuesday are forecast to feature temperatures exceeding 30°C across central, southern, and eastern England.
Met Office Deputy Chief Meteorologist Steven Keates stated, “We’re confident that temperatures will rise sharply by early next week, reaching low 30s Celsius in parts of England on Monday and possibly mid-30s in some areas on Tuesday. However, the duration of this hot spell remains uncertain, and high temperatures may persist longer, particularly in the south.”
He added, “While ex-Dexter initiates this temperature increase, the weather patterns sustaining the heat are less predictable.”
Looking ahead, Friday will be dry with sunny spells and lighter winds, reaching a maximum of 24°C. The evening will remain clear and dry, allowing patches of mist and fog to form overnight, with a low of 11°C.
On Saturday, early mist and fog will clear, leading to prolonged sunny intervals. It will feel pleasantly warm despite breezier conditions later in the day, with temperatures again maxing out around 24°C.
High pressure is expected to maintain generally dry conditions and plenty of sunshine through the weekend, though showers may become more likely by Tuesday as temperatures continue to rise above average.