European weather maps turn volcanic red as August heatwaves set to broil Brits

Britain is set to swelter under intense heat next week as European weather maps show a surge of scorching air sweeping north from the continent. The latest WX charts weather maps for Tuesday, 19 August, reveal much of southern England and Wales glowing in deep red tones, signalling temperatures climbing into the mid-to-high 20s Celsius.

While parts of France, Spain, and Italy are forecast to broil in the mid-30s, the UK will experience its own share of summer sizzle. London, the South East, and the Midlands look poised for peak heat, with inland areas expected to hit around 28°C. Coastal areas will remain slightly cooler, but the warm, settled spell will be a noticeable shift from recent unsettled conditions.

High pressure anchored over western Europe is steering hot continental air northward, keeping skies largely clear over much of the UK.

The second map shows widespread "volcanic red" shading across southern Europe, while the British Isles sits under a stable, dry dome of high pressure, with only light winds and minimal rain expected.

The North and Scotland will see more moderate warmth, with temperatures around 16-20°C, but even here, sunny spells will dominate as the heatwave extends its reach.

The lack of rainfall will come as welcome news to holidaymakers but could heighten concerns about dry ground and water reserves after an already parched August.

Meteorologists say this late-summer burst is typical of recent years, with heatwaves stretching further into August and September.

While the UK's temperatures will not match southern Europe's extreme highs, the warm spell is expected to persist for several days, bringing prime conditions for outdoor events and trips to the coast.

If forecasts hold, 19 August could be one of the hottest days of the month for England, marking a fiery climax to the summer holiday season.