UK weather: Hottest day of the year expected with temperatures set to surpass 30C
A high of 31.9C was recorded on 19 July this year in St James's Park, central London - but Tuesday's "mini-heatwave" may result in a new record high for 2024.
Tuesday 30 July 2024 14:22, UK
The UK may have its hottest day of the year so far, as temperatures are expected to top 30C (86F) today.
People in England and Wales will see a dry day with lots of sunshine, that may break this year's previous temperature high of 31.9C (89.4F) in St James's Park in central London on 19 July.
But the Met Office has issued a yellow warning for thunderstorms across London and the South East on Wednesday which may result in "isolated flooding and disruption".
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The warning states spray and sudden flooding could lead to difficult driving conditions and some road closures, with a "small chance" some communities could be cut off by flooded roads.
It also warns of a "slight chance" of power cuts for homes and businesses.
A similar warning of thunderstorms and disruption has also been issued for an area stretching from the South East up to Manchester and Newcastle-Upon-Tyne for between 12pm and 11.59pm on Thursday.
The threat of thunderstorms comes after the heat is expected to peak in southern England and Wales on Tuesday.
"Temperatures are likely to peak at around 32C in southeast England on Tuesday and Wednesday, with much of the UK experiencing dry, fine and warm conditions in the first half of the week," the Met Office's chief meteorologist Frank Saunders said.
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The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued yellow heat health warnings for all areas of England, except the North East and North West, until Friday.
The agency warned that expected hot weather may have "significant impacts" on the health and social care sector across the South East and London.
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But the soaring temperatures may not yet be considered a heatwave.
A location must record at least three consecutive days with maximum temperatures exceeding a designated value - 25C (77F) for most of the UK, rising to 28C (82.4F) in London and its surrounding area - to be considered a heatwave.