The UK is bracing itself for another sweltering day as a heatwave continues to grip the nation. With temperatures expected to remain high, residents are left wondering when the heat will finally break.
According to the Met Office, today and tomorrow will see sunshine with low clouds and lingering hot, humid air. However, temperatures are expected to drop slightly beginning tomorrow, but will still be in the low 30s. It's not until Sunday and Monday that the mercury is expected to dip further.
London is among the areas expected to remain hot for a few more days, with temperatures reaching as high as 32C in the far southeast. While there is some respite in sight, the long-range forecast for next week suggests a return to more average temperatures, with a mixture of winds and rain expected to sweep across the UK.
The Met Office has attributed the heatwave to a huge area of high pressure, often referred to as a heat dome. This high-pressure system is being supported by a dip in the jet stream to the west, allowing warm air to move northwards. As air sinks under high pressure, it becomes compressed and warms, leading to a steady rise in temperatures.
Humidity plays a significant role in making the temperature feel even more intense. Air arriving at the surface has traveled over the Atlantic, carrying more moisture and making the temperature feel more oppressive.
The heatwave has prompted renewed calls for the UK to be better prepared for the rising risk of extreme heat, including cooling for hospitals, schools, and care homes, as well as heat regulations for workplaces and infrastructure preparedness against rising temperatures.
Doctors have described severe pressure on the workforce, with many settings lacking air conditioning, and staff struggling to cope with the heat. The Royal College of Physicians has warned of unsustainable conditions, with some patients facing temperatures of up to 35C.
Employers have also been criticized for their uneven response to the heatwave, with almost one in five having no measures in place to help workers cope. A survey found that a third of companies have relaxed dress codes, while a quarter offer flexible working hours, and a few other measures such as free refreshments and additional breaks.
