UK sees joint hottest day of year as heatwave ends giving way to thunderstorms

Temperatures reached 32.2C in Lincolnshire on Sunday (June 25) to make it the joint hottest day of 2023 so far.

Coningsby matched this year’s highest temperature, previously reached on June 10 in Chertsey, Surrey.

However, following the latest scorcher, temperatures are set to cool in the near future.

READ MORE: Britain set to roast with record-smashing 5 heatwaves that could beat last year’s 40.3C

Sunday’s conditions caused havoc in some places as the London Fire Brigade said 10 fire engines and around 70 firefighters were dispatched to tackle a grass blaze on Rammey Marsh in Enfield.

Around two hectares of grassland were alight, it was confirmed.



Sunday (June 25) was the joint hottest day of the year so far
(Image: PA)

London’s New Wimbledon theatre cancelled a performance of Charlie And The Chocolate Factory the Musical due to sweltering temperatures.

It tweeted: “Due to outside temperatures in excess of 30C and its impact on working conditions on stage, we have reluctantly taken the decision to cancel today’s performance of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory the Musical.”

Met Office meteorologist Amy Bokota said: “Stay hydrated and make sure you are wearing sun protection as we have high UV levels. Make sure you drink lots of fluid and stay out of the sun. Make sure you are not putting any disposable barbecues on any grassland area.”

Temperatures over the weekend matched those of popular Mediterranean holiday hotspots, according to the forecaster.

Conditions are expected to cool next week with fresher air expected, particularly in the south-east.



Thunderstorms are set to bring a period of cooler weather
(Image: Adam Gerrard / Daily Mirror)

Ms Bokota said: “That really humid air is likely to feel a lot more comfortable than it has done for the last couple of weeks. Tomorrow will be fresher with some sunshine and showers like we have seen today.”

Swathes of the UK have enjoyed warm temperatures this month, with the mercury topping 30C in some areas on several days.

Beaches, parks, and beer gardens have been packed with people enjoying the sunshine with their families and friends.

However, following Sunday’s widespread thunderstorms, from Monday temperatures are expected to go down, close to the average for this time of year.

The Met Office said there will be “a much fresher feel” through the first half of the week.

Currently, highs are expected to be around 24C, with lows lingering around 14C or 15C, according to the latest weather forecast.

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