Weekend cooldown to mark end of heatwave for some
BBC News 2026-07-16 00:31:59
Context: A heatwave that has gripped parts of the UK is set to end for some regions as temperatures drop significantly over the weekend, with fresher northerly winds bringing cooler conditions to Scotland, Northern Ireland, and northern England. The cooldown comes after a spell of intensely hot weather that has lasted for 12 consecutive days in southern England, with temperatures expected to remain warmer than average in much of the UK. Despite the break from the heat, there is no sign of significant rain in the forecast, with high pressure remaining close to the UK.
Key Facts
- Temperatures in northern Scotland will be up to seven degrees Celsius lower on Saturday than on Thursday, marking an end to the heatwave in the region.
- North-west England will see temperatures fall by five to six degrees Celsius from Thursday's maximum, dropping to the low 20s by Saturday.
- Several locations across south-east England, including Wisley, Surrey, and Herstmonceux, East Sussex, have now seen close to 30 days without rain.
- More than 2,700 people may have died in exceptional May and June heatwaves in England and Wales, according to recent reports.
- The Met Office's state of the climate report for 2025 revealed that the hottest day of the year in the south of England is now typically 4.5C warmer than it was in 1961-1990.