Extreme Weather Events: Increased Frequency Predicted
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Summary:
The article discusses the unusually warm and dry summer experienced this year in the UK, linking it to both short-term weather patterns (high pressure, European heatwaves) and the long-term trend of climate change. The author, a meteorologist with 30 years of experience, highlights how what was once considered exceptionally hot weather (30C) is becoming more commonplace, illustrated by comparing temperatures forecast in the 1990s to the record-breaking 40.3C recorded in 2022.
Key Points:
This Summer’s Weather: Drier and warmer than average, with three heatwaves. Storm Floris also occurred.
Short-term causes: High pressure systems and the influence of european heatwaves contributed to the warm, dry conditions. Long-Term Trend: The warmer weather aligns with the overall trend of a warming planet due to climate change. Experts predict more frequent extreme weather events (heatwaves, storms, floods, droughts).
Climate Averages: The UK met Office uses 30-year averages (currently 1991-2020) to track climate trends, updated every decade.
Personal Observation: The author notes a significant shift in what is considered “hot” weather over their 30-year career.30C was notable in the 90s, while 40C was reached in 2022 (a first for the UK). 30C is now being forecast in Northern Ireland.
Record Temperature: The UK recorded its highest ever temperature of 40.3C in Coningsby, Lincolnshire on July 19, 2022.