Home / Environment / UK Skies Turn Opaque: Wildfire Smoke Blankets Nation
UK Skies Turn Opaque: Wildfire Smoke Blankets Nation
21 Jul
Summary
- Wildfire smoke from North America has caused UK skies to appear opaque.
- Over 900 wildfires are currently burning in Canada, forcing evacuations.
- Temperatures have dropped slightly after recent heatwave conditions.

Wildfire smoke originating from North America has significantly impacted the UK's skies, causing them to appear opaque and grey. This unusual atmospheric condition is a direct result of extensive wildfires, with over 900 blazes currently active in Canada. The smoke plumes have traveled across North America and the Atlantic, reaching the UK.
This influx of smoke coincides with a slight drop in temperatures following a recent heatwave. Forecasts predict highs of approximately 28C in southern UK regions and around 25-26C in the north for the current week. Tomorrow, the north is expected to experience cloudy conditions with light showers, while other areas should remain dry with sunny spells.
Looking ahead to Friday, settled weather is anticipated with patchy cloud and isolated showers in the north, and very warm conditions in the south. The weekend forecast indicates a shift, with more widespread rain expected to move into the north by Saturday, followed by showers.
Meanwhile, weather maps suggest the possibility of another heatwave approaching. Separately, forecasts from the BBC align with the Met Office, predicting cloudy conditions in the north tomorrow and sunny spells in the south, with possible showers in the east.