Ukraine could be hit by a severe heatwave in early August: temperatures are set to reach +32…+38° in some areas, according to the Ventusky forecast. The hottest day is currently expected to be 5 August. The high temperatures will increase the use of air conditioning and the strain on the power grid; power cuts may be imposed in certain regions if consumption is excessive.
Briefly about the main points
- Temperatures of +30…+34° are forecast for the end of July.
- In early August, temperatures may reach +38° in some places.
- 5 August is currently predicted to be the hottest day.
- Air conditioning units will increase demand for electricity.
- Ukrenergo advises people to save electricity in the evenings.
Temperatures are set to rise towards the end of July
According to Ventusky’s forecast, temperatures of around +30…+34° are expected in Ukraine at the end of July. In early August, the heat may intensify to +32…+38° in certain parts of the country.
This is a model forecast, which will be refined as the date approaches. The Ukrainian Hydrometeorological Centre notes that its official hourly and daily forecasts cover up to five days, whilst forecasts for days 6–9 are for guidance only.
July was already warmer and drier than usual
In its forecast for July, the Ukrainian Hydrometeorological Centre predicted an average monthly temperature of 21.8–26.0°, which is 2° above the climatic norm, and 3° higher in the west. Precipitation was forecast to be 60–75% of the normal amount.
In June, temperatures of +33…+38° were already recorded in Ukraine, and in the western regions, the Odesa and Zakarpattia regions, temperatures reached +39…+40°. According to the Ukrainian Hydrometeorological Centre, in some areas, the all-time June highs recorded since 1951 were either matched or exceeded.
Forecast a rise in temperatures is superimposed on a warm and relatively dry background. This may increase the risks to people’s health, water resources and fire safety, although it does not necessarily mean that problems will automatically arise in specific regions.
Peak electricity consumption is expected in cities
Due to the widespread use of air conditioning, the heatwave will place a significant strain on the electricity grid. The greatest strain is traditionally expected in large cities. If consumption is too high, power cuts may return in certain regions.
At the same time, temperature is not the only factor in the imposition of restrictions. The situation is also influenced by available generation capacity, equipment maintenance, the condition of the grid, electricity imports and the security situation. The Chairman of the Board of Ukrenergo« Vitaliy Zaychenko He had previously described July and August as the most challenging summer months due to the maintenance programme at the nuclear power station and the lower available nuclear generation.
«Ukrenergo recommends postponing energy-intensive household tasks until outside the evening peak period — roughly between 20:00 and 23:00 — and using air conditioning sensibly. The company has also linked the possibility of getting through the summer without restrictions to the absence of new Russian attacks on the energy infrastructure.
How to reduce the risk of overheating
The Ministry of Health advises that during the hottest part of the day, roughly from 10.00 to 16.00, people should minimise their exposure to direct sunlight and avoid strenuous physical activity. It is advisable to drink water or sugar- and caffeine-free drinks regularly.
Symptoms of heatstroke may include a high body temperature, hot, dry skin, confusion or loss of consciousness, and rapid, shallow breathing.
