We’ve finally had some rain in Greater Manchester, after weeks upon months of dry, hot weather which, let’s face it, got a bit old. Now though, brace yourselves, because we seem to be in for yet another heatwave, at least by Met Office standards.
What is the definition of a UK heatwave?
A UK heatwave threshold is met when a location records a period of at least three consecutive days with daily maximum temperatures meeting or exceeding the heatwave temperature threshold. The threshold varies by UK county, and for much of the UK, including us here in Greater Manchester, alongside much of Wales, all of Scotland and everything further north than us, that magic number is 25°C.
In contrast, London and some surrounding counties have to reach 28°C for that three-day period to declare an official heatwave, with concentric counties requiring 27°C and 26°C, including our neighbours Cheshire and Derbyshire.
Is a fourth Greater Manchester heatwave incoming?
Looking at the temperatures we’re in for, you may think it’s actually pretty pleasant, and in all fairness, compared to the 34°C we were suffering a few weeks ago, it is really.
Met Office forecast
Today (July 28)
Tuesday will get off to a rather grey and breezy start with some fog patches over the hills and a little drizzle in places. It will gradually brighten up though, with some warm spells of sunshine developing for the afternoon. Maximum temperature 24°C.
Tonight
A fine end to the day with some evening sunshine. Overnight, areas of low cloud will reform, giving some hill fog. The odd spot of drizzle later. Another warm night. Minimum temperature 16°C.
Wednesday (July 29)
Low cloud and hill fog will lift to give some bright intervals. However, cloud thickening from the northwest heading into the afternoon with some showers developing. Feeling warm and humid. Maximum temperature 26°C.
Outlook for Thursday (July 30) to Saturday (August 2)
Thursday will be fresher with sunshine and a few showers. An isolated shower on Friday, though mostly dry with further sunshine developing at times heading into the weekend.
In Manchester, we’re looking at temperatures rising back up to 25°C or 26°C on Wednesday, with changeable conditions continuing throughout the week. Although at the moment we’re set to see anywhere between 20°C and 24°C after Wednesday, with the weather being so unruly, there’s every chance we could get a few degrees higher – which is all we would need for yet another heatwave.
We’re advised to keep an eye on the Met Office forecast throughout the week, as health warnings have been issued elsewhere in the country, and you never know how the weather could turn.
