UK: Heat wave, thunderstorms to bring 1-2 punch this week

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 will be in full gear by Tuesday as temperatures approach or pass 32 C (90 F) in London and surrounding areas. High dew pointsand intense sunshine will result in AccuWeather RealFeel® Temperatures 1-2 degrees C (2-4 degrees F) higher than actually temperatures during the afternoon hours.

A high temperature of 28 C (82 F) is expected in Manchester on Tuesday, which would be the hottest day of the month so far.

The heat will not be as intense in Edinburgh or Belfast where high temperatures of 24 C (76 F) and 22 C (72 F) are forecast.

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 and Thursday, making it an official heat wave for many locations across the country. This heat wave will yield the hottest days of July and could challenge for 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.

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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 welcomed by many, there will be the risk for showers and thunderstorms.

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, though most locations will be dry for much of the day on both Saturday and Sunday.

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.