London, the capital city of England, is known for its cloudy and rainy weather. However, it’s a common question that arises in the minds of many people – does London ever get hot? Let’s dive into this topic and find out the truth.
London Weather Overview
Before we jump into whether London gets hot or not, let’s first look at an overview of London weather. London has a temperate maritime climate, which means that it doesn’t experience extreme temperatures. The city has mild winters and cool summers with frequent rain showers throughout the year.
Summer Temperature in London
Now coming back to our main question – does London ever get hot? Yes, it does!
Although rare, there are times when London experiences a heatwave during summers. In July 2019, London experienced its second hottest day on record when temperatures soared to 38.7°C (101.7°F). This was a rare occurrence as the average temperature during summer in London ranges from 18°C (64°F) to 23°C (73°F).
Why Does London Get Hot?
The reason behind occasional heatwaves in London is due to a phenomenon known as the ‘urban heat island effect.’ This happens because cities like London have more concrete and fewer green spaces than rural areas. Concrete absorbs more heat from the sun during the day and releases it slowly at night, causing temperatures to rise.
How Do People Cope With The Heat?
As mentioned earlier, heatwaves are rare in London; thus, people aren’t equipped to deal with them effectively. Most homes and buildings aren’t equipped with air conditioning systems or fans to keep cool during hot weather. As a result, people tend to open windows or take refuge in parks and public places with shade.
What Precautions Should You Take?
If you’re planning to visit London during the summer months, it’s best to be prepared for any eventualities. Keep yourself hydrated by drinking plenty of water, wear light and loose-fitting clothes, and stay indoors or avoid direct sunlight during the hottest parts of the day.
Conclusion
In conclusion, London does get hot but only occasionally during summers. It’s essential to keep yourself prepared and take necessary precautions during such times.
With that being said, London is a beautiful city with plenty of things to see and do all year round. So go ahead and plan your trip without worrying too much about the heat!