The UK is set for cool and wet weather while mainland Europe faces a severe heatwave, with temperatures soaring above 44°C in some regions. This disparity is driven by a ‘heat dome’ over Europe, leading to fatalities, wildfires, and above-average temperatures in Mediterranean countries.
Recent weather patterns have demonstrated a notable contrast between the UK and mainland Europe. Britain is expected to continue experiencing cool and wet weather throughout the upcoming week, while mainland Europe, particularly the Mediterranean region, is enduring a severe heatwave. This disparity is influenced by a ‘heat dome’ over Europe, trapping warm air and pushing temperatures past 44°C (111.2°F) in some areas, resulting in two fatalities in Cyprus and precipitating wildfires.
In contrast, the UK’s weather, described as “Juneuary” due to its unseasonably cold and wet conditions, heads for a spell of marginally warmer and drier weather from late next week. For example, Wales is forecasted to see temperatures peaking at around 20°C (68°F) with a general trend towards drier conditions. However, rainfall and overcast sky remains a possibility, especially in the north.
The Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S) predicts that the Mediterranean region will continue experiencing above-average temperatures throughout July, August, and September. This heatwave has significantly impacted countries like Greece, Turkey, Italy, Hungary, Poland, the Balkans, and Germany, where the European Football Championship is currently being held.
In summary, while Europe grapples with a severe heatwave and its associated risks, such as wildfires, the UK remains cooler and wetter, although a brief period of warmer weather is anticipated. The general outlook underscores the vast differences in weather patterns across the continent at the start of this summer season.
