Parts of central and southern Europe have experienced temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius this week. Southern France, particularly the Ardeche region, is forecast to see highs in the high 30s for several days, with the possibility of local temperatures reaching 40C.
Further east, Greece and Turkey have seen a slight easing of temperatures this week, but early next week could still bring days with highs in the upper 30s. Meanwhile, sea surface temperatures in the central Mediterranean remain notably above average, in some areas by as much as 4 degrees Celsius.
The current heat across the continent raises questions about whether the United Kingdom could experience a September heatwave as warmer conditions are expected to develop there.
Areas from Portugal and Spain through southern France and into parts of Poland and Croatia have shown the highest temperature anomalies, with many locations experiencing temperatures more than 10 degrees Celsius above the seasonal average. For example, Zaragoza, Spain, is projected to have temperatures around 39C on Saturday and Sunday, with a forecast drop to 30C by Wednesday.
While specific forecasts for the UK remain subject to change, the current pattern of intense heat in continental Europe and elevated sea surface temperatures suggests a potential for warmer weather to extend into the region. Information on the UK's specific forecast, including temperature ranges for the north and south and precipitation, is available, with drier weather expected in the south and potential rain in the northwest.
