'Heat dome' set to bring intense hot spell

Another blast of very hot weather is on the way for the Channel Islands.

It is forecast to hit 31°C In Jersey on Sunday (21 June), and 28°C in Guernsey.

It is likely to be even hotter on Monday, potentially topping 31°C in Guernsey and 33°C in Jersey.

Temperatures are set to remain high into next week, possibly producing a second heatwave of 2026.  That is where it exceeds 28°C for three consecutive days or more.

Islanders are also likely to have some uncomfortable nights ahead of them, where temperatures won't drop below 20°C,  a so-called 'tropical night'.

The record for the year so far was set on 26 May, when it got to 34.2°C in Jersey during an unprecedented five day long early heatwave. In Guernsey it go to 31.5°C that day.

The hot spell contributed to it being the warmest spring since records began in Jersey in 1894, and a record-breaker in Guernsey too.

Across Europe, countries are bracing for an intense heatwave, building gradually over the next few days.

A large area of high pressure, known as a 'heat dome' is building, that is expected to bring temperatures in excess of 40 degrees for some countries.

Plus-40C is predicted for Paris on Sunday, which would beat the previous June record of 37.6 degrees set in 1947.

There could also be some intense thunderstorms and the risk of potential flash-flooding on the continent.

Alex Deakin, from the UK Met Office, says this heatwave could be more concerning than the last.

"The big difference between this hot spell and the one at the end of May is the humidity has increased, so it is going to be more humid - both by day and by night which obviously makes it harder to sleep at night.

"The increased humidity will increase the risk of health issues from this hot spell."

Public Health advice in hot weather:

Extreme heat can cause heat exhaustion, heatstroke and dehydration. Older people and children are particularly at risk.

There are lots of ways you can keep cool and reduce the risks:

• stock up on food and drink supplies so you don't have to go out into the heat everyday
• avoid going outside during the hottest time of day 11am to 3pm
• leave strenuous activities like gardening or DIY for later on in the day when it is cooler
• take cold baths and showers
• drink plenty of fluids but avoid coffee and alcohol
• provide shade for babies with parasols
• freeze ice lollies for children
• keep your home cool by closing curtains, opening windows and using fans
• when you go out wear a sun hat and loose light clothing, try to stay in the shade and carry water with you