UK Heat wave: All-time July temperature record to be challenged as dangerous heat builds into Thursday

By Eric Leister, AccuWeather senior meteorologist

Intense heat is set to build across much of the United Kingdom this week and will be accompanied by high humidity.

The highest temperatures are expected across Greater London and southeast England; however, uncomfortable conditions are forecast for much of England and Wales with above-normal temperatures across Northern Ireland and Scotland.

The heat kicked into full gear on Tuesday as temperatures approached 32 C (90 F) in London and surrounding areas by the early afternoon. High dew points and intense sunshine resulted in AccuWeather RealFeel® Temperatures 1-2 degrees C (2-4 degrees F) higher than actual temperatures during the afternoon hours.

While the heat was not as intense, the locations from Manchester to Edinburgh and Belfast recorded some of highest temperatures of the month so far on Tuesday.

Visitors at Green Park enjoy the sunny weather whilst having a break in London, Friday, June 21, 2019. (AP Photo/Frank Augstein)

Similar temperatures are expected on Wednesday before peaking in most locations on Thursday. This three-day stretch of unseasonable heat will achieve heat wave status for a large portion of the United Kingdom.

This heat wave will also yield the hottest days of July and is forecast to bring the hottest day of the summer so far. The hottest day of the year is currently June 29, with a high of 34.0 C (93.2 F) at Heathrow and Northolt.

Temperatures on Thursday will soar to dangerously high levels across southeast England and could break the countries all-time July high temperature record of 36.7 C (98.1 F) from Heathrow in 2015.

In fact, high temperatures on Thursday may climb high enough to threaten the all-time high temperature record for the United Kingdom, which currently stands at 38.5 C (101.3 F) and was recorded in Faversham in August 2003.

While southern and eastern parts of the country will endure the most extreme heat, Manchester can still expect a hot day on Thursday with a high near 30 C (86 F). Temperatures will climb to near 27 C (79 F) in Edinburgh, while Belfast can expect a high temperature of 23 C (74 F).

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A storm system affecting the region from Thursday afternoon into Friday will bring an end to the heat and send temperatures falling back closer to normal levels for late July by Friday. While the relief from the heat will be welcome by many, there will be the risk for showers and thunderstorms.

High temperatures on Friday will be around 10 degrees Celsius (18 degrees Fahrenheit) lower across London and southeast England following Thursday's record-challenging heat.

Most areas will escape any severe weather; however, the strongest thunderstorms will be capable of producing heavy rainfall, damaging winds and hail.

The risk for showers and thunderstorms will continue into the upcoming weekend as the storm system stalls near the region and keeps heat at bay.

Download the free AccuWeather app for more details on temperature trends in your community. Keep checking back for updates on AccuWeather.com and stay tuned to the AccuWeather Network on DirecTV, Frontier and Verizon Fios.