UK heatwave approaches two-week mark
Summary
Parts of the UK have experienced nearly two weeks of continuous hot weather, with some places reaching temperatures above 30°C for 12 days in a row. This heatwave is one of the longest and hottest in recent years, influenced by climate change and specific weather patterns that trap warm air.Key Facts
- Southern England has seen 13 days above the heatwave temperature threshold.
- Merryfield in Somerset reached 30.6°C (87.1°F) on a recent day, marking 12 consecutive days at or above 30°C in the UK.
- The current heatwave is the longest since 2006 but is unlikely to break the 1976 record of 16 days at or above 30°C.
- Climate change has raised average UK temperatures by about 1.33°C since 1961-1990, with the hottest days warming even faster.
- A slow-moving high pressure system, called a "heat dome," has trapped warm air, creating prolonged heat and dry conditions.
- This year has had three heatwaves so far, with more days exceeding 35°C than usual and consecutive months with extreme heat.
- Some parts of southern England have not seen any rainfall for 30 days, but no widespread drought is reported yet.
- Heatwaves in the UK are becoming more frequent, longer, and more intense according to the Met Office.
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