A heat dome currently over western Europe is driving extreme temperatures across the continent, with the United Kingdom experiencing its hottest June day on record. The Met Office forecast a high of 38°C for Thursday, which would surpass the previous June record of 35.6°C set in 1976.
Record-breaking temperatures
According to the Met Office, the UK's national weather service, the temperature record was broken four times on Wednesday. The highest temperature reached 36.1°C in Gosport, Hampshire. Other notable readings included 36°C in Gosport and Wisley, Surrey, 35.8°C in Wiggonholt, West Sussex, and 35.7°C in Charlwood, Surrey, as reported by The Independent.
The record-breaking heat has prompted a rare red warning from the Met Office for extreme heat, as much of the UK experiences scorching and humid conditions.
Heat dome impact
The heatwave is caused by a heat dome over western Europe, which brings extreme conditions across the continent. The Independent reported that the heat has already led to health warnings, school closures, and transportation disruptions. The Met Office's extreme heat warnings will remain in place as heat-related illnesses continue to be a concern.
The BBC noted that temperatures are expected to ease from Friday as wind direction changes, returning closer to average for next week. On Thursday, central southern England could see highs of 37°C to 38°C, while Scotland and Northern Ireland will be slightly cooler at 25°C to 30°C. Northern Scotland will be cooler still, with highs around 15°C to 20°C.
Amber extreme warnings, the Met Office's second-highest level, will remain in place for parts of England through Saturday. Heavy showers and thunderstorms could develop in southwest England on Thursday, bringing gusty winds, intense rainfall, and localized flash flooding, according to the BBC.
Climate change context
Experts have warned that breaking a 50-year-old temperature record is a stark illustration of climate change. The Independent reported that fossil fuel burning is fueling more frequent and intense heatwaves. The temperature figures are provisional, and the Met Office will verify them at the end of the heatwave to determine if they officially set a new record.
“If confirmed, a new June daily temperature record would be significant, especially following on the heels of the recent records set in May,” said Met Office science manager Amy Doherty. “The new record provides further evidence that temperatures previously considered extreme are becoming increasingly common as a result of human-induced climate change.”
To cope with the heat, some schools have closed or partially closed, transportation services have been disrupted, and people have been urged to stay inside, close windows and curtains, and stay hydrated. The heatwave has also prompted calls for the government to take more action to protect the UK from extreme heat, including measures to cool hospitals, schools, and care homes.
“Human-induced climate change has made events like this more likely and more intense,” said Met Office chief scientist Stephen Belcher. “To see temperatures like this in the UK in June is sobering. Events like this bring home the implications of climate change, with very high temperatures and humidity bringing significant health implications from heat stress, as well as impacts to a range of sectors such as transport, energy and water supply.”
