UK to get a second heatwave as African plume expected to send temperatures soaring

Put your umbrellas away, folks, because the region is on track to bask in a sizzling heatwave later this month.

Now, you’d be forgiven for thinking that summer is well and truly over for us Brits – the July heatwave, which saw temperatures soar to highs of 30 degrees celsius, came to an end last week and was replaced by those all-too-familiar cold temperatures, grey clouds and drizzle.

However, forecasters have come forward this week with a little bit of good news for those wanting to enjoy every moment of summer while it lasts.

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According to forecasters at Weather Outlook, an African plume is expected to bring hot and sunny weather to Greater Manchester and the rest of the country later this month, with temperatures expected to reach the high twenties.

On the new predictions, Weather Outlook forecaster Brian Gaze told the Express: “High pressure may build towards the UK from the Azores, but there is a lot of uncertainty about this.

“If it happens temperatures in southern and central areas could climb towards the upper 20Cs and in the north the mid 20Cs.”

He added: “In the first half of August, mixed with showers or longer periods of rain but also warm and fine spells. The driest weather will probably be in the south and east, but a heightened risk of heavy showers or thunderstorms means local variations could be large.

David Dixon / Geograph

“Temperatures should be above average when aggregated over the period as a whole. In the second half, the chance of settled and very warm periods increases. Showery spells of rain are still probable, particularly in the north and west.”

Met Office spokeswoman Nicola Maxey also predicted ‘hotter spells’ to develop as we get into August, adding: “The start of the month is expected to remain changeable with temperatures most likely close to normal for the time of year or slightly below.

“During the second half of the month there is a tentative signal for more settled conditions to develop with high pressure becoming slightly more likely.”