UK temps of 45C (113F) may be possible in current climate, Met Office says
a year ago
- #UK weather
- #extreme heat
- #climate change
- The UK has a 50/50 chance of experiencing 40C temperatures again within the next 12 years due to climate change.
- Temperatures of 45C or higher may be possible in the current climate, with heatwaves lasting a month or more.
- The first recorded 40C temperature in the UK occurred in 2022, peaking at 40.3C in Lincolnshire.
- Extreme heat in 2022 led to major incidents, including fires, transport disruptions, and over 3,000 heat-related deaths in England.
- The risk of 40C temperatures has increased more than 20 times since the 1960s and nearly tripled since 2000.
- Temperatures up to 46.6C are plausible in the UK under current climate conditions.
- Heatwaves could result in up to two-thirds of summer days exceeding 28C in southeast England, with continuous heatwaves lasting over a month.
- Consecutive days above 35C are also possible, emphasizing the need for preparedness against extreme heat impacts.