Expert comment: High September temperatures ‘unusual’

Professor Hannah Cloke, Professor of Hydrology at the University of Reading, said; “Hot weather is not unheard of at the start of September in the UK. Until the middle of the month, there is more light than darkness each day, and the pattern of high pressure and southerly winds that we are experiencing now is not uncommon.  

“It is unusual to have temperatures so high at this time of year, in the low 30s. This heat and humidity can cause health problems, which is why authorities have issued an amber heat warning for most of England. 

“It does look as if conditions will cool down next week, which will provide some respite to those most at risk from heat, such as the very old, the very young, and people working outdoors.

“The UK hasn't suffered as much from extreme heat as many other parts of the northern hemisphere this summer, but disruptive heatwaves and their many impacts on our lives will increasingly become common in the UK if average global temperatures continue to rise in the future.”