Weather warning for travelers as Brits brace for 29C temperatures

Cooler weather and clouds will return to the UK this weekend after the country experienced its hottest day of the year so far yesterday (Friday 19 July), the Met Office said.

Temperatures hit 31.9C at St James’ Park in central London yesterday, making Friday the hottest day on record since 2024. It comes as the AA advises drivers that coastal routes will be busier than usually this weekend as people try to make the most of the warm weather.

Day trips have already led to heavier traffic in areas such as Bournemouth and Brighton on the south coast. However, the Met Office said temperatures were unlikely to hit 20C for “at least a week”.

Clouds will return today as warmer temperatures will be confined to the east and south-east of England, which could reach up to 29 degrees. On the other hand, bursts of thunder and heavy rain are forecast for Wales and south-west England today, while the east and south-east could also see storms.

Tomorrow is forecast to be drier, brighter and fresher with temperatures staying in the 20s; July average. Monday’s weather is set to be changeable, but the rest of the week looks mostly dry.

Met Office meteorologist Tom Morgan said temperatures could rise again “as late as July”, the DailyMail reports. He said it was too early to say whether the mercury would exceed Friday’s reading, but “I certainly wouldn’t rule out a higher temperature in August or even later this month.”

There will be “occasional very hot or warm spells” in August, he added, but “there is no strong signal” that high temperatures will be prolonged or widespread across Britain.

Mr Morgan said “nearly double” the rainfall forecast for July had already been seen in the east and south-east of England. Forecasters said Northern Ireland and Scotland had yet to record high temperatures.

The use of a sun visor over the rear windows is recommended by the AA when traveling in the heat. He also recommends keeping ice water in your car, leaving vehicles in the shade if possible, and using a windshield shade when parking.

On Thursday, the Health and Safety Authority (HSA) urged employees to protect themselves from ultraviolet (UV) radiation, as well as requiring employers to carry out a risk assessment for “potential UV hazards” and encourage breaks.