UK heatwave approaches two-week mark
The UK is experiencing an unusually long heatwave, with some regions recording 13 consecutive days above heatwave criteria. Experts attribute the prolonged high temperatures to climate change and a persistent 'heat dome' weather pattern.
Why it matters
The increasing frequency and duration of extreme weather events highlight the accelerating impact of climate change on regional infrastructure and public health.
By Sarah Keith-Lucas Lead Weather Presenter Published 17 minutes ago Some parts of the UK are now approaching a fortnight of heatwave conditions.
Places in southern England have recorded an unbroken run of 13 days above their heatwave criteria, and with Merryfield in Somerset reaching 30.6C (87.1F) on Thursday, the UK has seen 12 consecutive days at or above 30C, the longest such spell since 2006.
In Bournemouth and Heathrow, temperatures above 26C and 28C respectively have continued now for nearly two weeks and whilst some slightly cooler air will arrive from the north this weekend, a few locations may well see another few days of heatwave yet.
However, the 1976 UK record of 16 days at or above 30C seems unlikely to be broken.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in