**UK Set to Sizzle with Temperatures Surpassing Athens, But Severe Storms and High Pollen Pose Risks**
Britons are braced for an unusual weather cocktail this weekend, as the nation faces soaring heat that is expected to eclipse traditional southern European hotspots, while also contending with warnings of potentially intense thunderstorms and a surge in pollen levels. According to the latest reports from the Met Office, residents across England and Wales should prepare for the mercury to climb to as high as 34°C in some areas—considerably warmer than the 28°C peaks forecasted for Athens.
However, the high temperatures bring with them a yellow weather warning for thunderstorms across northern England, stretching from Nottingham to areas beyond Newcastle. This alert, in effect from 3pm on Saturday until 4am on Sunday, signals the likelihood of dramatic weather episodes. The Met Office has advised that the most severe storms could see frequent lightning strikes, instances of large hail, powerful gusts of wind, and even the risk of surface flooding in places where intense rain meets hardened ground.
In addition to potential electrical storms, the country remains under an amber heat-health alert for the duration of the weekend. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) issued this heightened warning after heatwaves triggered notably hot and humid conditions not only in England but also in parts of Wales. Particularly, eastern regions are tipped to see temperatures that could surpass the year’s current record of 32.2°C, set on Thursday in Kew, west London.
Weather experts emphasise that the dual impact of heat and stormy skies could pose a challenge for public health and infrastructure. Nicola Maxey, spokesperson for the Met Office, underscored that the impending storms may be severe enough to disrupt travel and overwhelm drainage systems. “We haven’t seen such heavy downpours for some time. Surface water flooding is a possibility, especially with rain hitting ground that has become hard after the dry spell,” Maxey noted. She added that the public should be vigilant, particularly in areas prone to flash flooding.
While the weather drama unfolds, the annual summer solstice event at Stonehenge is expected to attract large crowds in the early hours of Saturday. Those gathering to witness the sunrise will experience milder temperatures in the high teens, offering a brief respite from the day’s extreme heat and humidity.
Meteorologist Aidan McGovern of the Met Office pointed out that the highest temperatures are likely to be recorded in the east of England, with slightly more tolerable conditions in western regions—although the humidity will linger and may cause the air to feel stifling. “We’re looking at highs between 31 and possibly 34°C from London through to the Midlands and the northeast,” he explained. Heavy showers remain a distinct possibility throughout the day, especially later on.
Alongside the heat and humidity, exceptionally high UV and pollen counts are forecast for Saturday, presenting additional challenges for those with allergies or respiratory problems. Thursday’s record 32.2°C temperature and Friday’s highs of 30.8°C in England and Wales mark what is shaping up to be an extraordinary start to summer.
The UKHSA’s amber alert, the first issued since September 2023, remains in effect until 9am on Monday. The agency has cautioned that the extreme heat is likely to place considerable strain on health and social care services and lead to an uptick in heat-related illnesses, particularly among older adults and those with pre-existing conditions.
Reflecting on the broader risks, the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) urged people to stay alert to both heat and water dangers. Steve Cole, RoSPA’s policy director, commented, “Heat is no longer just a welcome feature of holidays—it’s now a significant public health risk in the UK and elsewhere. We’re witnessing increasing frequency and intensity of heatwaves, and this has led to a measurable rise in heat-associated illnesses and fatalities.” He also warned that inviting cool waters in hot weather often conceal hidden dangers, as water temperatures can still provoke cold-water shock.
As summer’s unpredictable force becomes ever more apparent, the public is encouraged to remain vigilant, stay hydrated and check on vulnerable neighbours. While the heat brings a taste of the Mediterranean, the accompanying threat of thunderstorms and health risks serve as timely reminders of the serious side of the British summer.