UK set to burn in record-breaking 39C heatwave today
Scorching hot weather will fry the UK today, as temperatures in London and the south east are set to break records at a blistering 39C.
As the UK’s three-day heatwave reaches its crescendo, the country is bracing for what may be the hottest British day on record – beating the 38C set in Kent in 2003.
Read more: Commuters urged to avoid travelling in scorching UK temperatures
The Met Office’s Greg Dewhurst said that there is a 60 per cent chance today’s temperature will surpass this level.
“It will get to the 30s across the country and reach the mid-30s in the south east. If it is to get to 39C, it will happen somewhere between London and Cambridge,” he said.
The sizzling heat played havoc with commuters’ journeys to work this morning as rail operators warned passengers to work from home.
Greater Anglia said the hot weather makes train tracks “more susceptible to buckling”, forcing services to run at a reduced speed.
The worst affected routes were those in and out of London Victoria, Blackfriars, East Croydon, Gatwick Airport and Brighton.
Similarly, Transport for London (TfL) warned of potential Tube disruption today as it conducts regular checks on track temperatures.
“We might need to reduce the speed of our trains at some locations this week as a result of the hot weather. This may mean that your journeys take longer than usual,” it said.
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Meanwhile thunder and lightning is set to lash the UK later tonight as the Met Office warned flooding could lead to train delays and cancellations.
“There is a chance that power cuts could occur and other services to some homes and businesses could be lost,” the Met Office added.