In certain areas of the UK, temperatures might rise beyond 30°C over the weekend and into the first part of next week.
According to BBC Weather, Sunday (August 11) and Monday (August 12) are going to be the hottest days, with highs of up to the "mid-30s" predicted in the south-east of England.
Storm Debby, which has travelled through the Gulf Stream and has brought significant floods and heavy rain across the US, is thought to have contributed to the upcoming heatwave.According to BBC Weather, although the storm won't make it to the UK, a plume of hot, humid air from Spain and France will drift north and hit portions of England and Wales.
The increased temperatures are believed to be caused by a Gulf Stream buckle brought on by Storm Debby's energy input.
But what is the Gulf Stream and how does it work? Here’s what you need to know.
What is the Gulf Stream and where does it originate from?
The Gulf Stream is a warm, rapid Atlantic Ocean current that starts at the tip of Florida and travels eastward along the US and Canadian coastlines before heading across the ocean to Europe.
It contributes to making Western Europe a significantly warmer environment than it otherwise would be.
How does the Gulf Stream work?
Warm water cools and some evaporation happens as it moves from the equator to the poles, increasing the salinity. Ocean water dips to great depths due to high density caused by low temperature and high salt content. As this water is dense and frigid, it travels slowly. The circulation eventually ends when it is drawn back to the surface and heats through a process known as "upwelling".This worldwide process ensures that heat and energy are dispersed across the Earth and that the oceans are constantly mixing. This, ultimately, adds to the current climate that we live in.
Why is the Gulf Stream so important?
Compared to other south-eastern states, Florida's east coast experiences warmer winters and colder summers due to the Gulf Stream. Furthermore, it helps heat western European nations like Norway.
When the circulation pauses, areas affected by the Gulf Stream receive significantly less heat. The continents of North America and Europe cool by a few degrees as a result.
How does the Gulf Stream affect UK weather?
Warm water from the Caribbean is brought to North-West Europe by the Gulf Stream, which has an impact on Britain's climate. Because of this, Britain experiences a warmer climate than other locations at a comparable latitude.
How cold would Britain be without the Gulf Stream?
The average winter temperature in the UK might drop by 5°C to 10°C. This would mean that London's average December temperature would be roughly 2°C, which would be comparable to the -5°C temperatures recorded in February 1963.
