The United Kingdom is experiencing a remarkable spell of hot weather, with temperatures soaring to levels typically seen in the Mediterranean. Forecasters have described the conditions as "historic" and suggest that Monday could break records for the hottest bank holiday on record.
Record-Breaking Temperatures
Saturday marked the hottest day of the year so far, with a temperature of 30.5°C recorded in Kent. However, Monday is expected to be even hotter, with predictions of up to 34°C in Greater London and across South East England. The Met Office has confirmed that heatwave conditions have now been met in eight locations across England: Heathrow in Greater London, Benson in Oxfordshire, Brooms Barn in Suffolk, High Beech in Essex, Kew Gardens in London, Northolt in London, Santon Downham in Suffolk, and Writtle in Essex.
Santon Downham was the first to meet the criteria at around 11:30, with a heatwave threshold of 27°C for three consecutive days. Heathrow followed shortly after at 11:50, with its threshold set at 28°C for three consecutive days. Temperatures in that area have since climbed further to 30°C.
Historic Weather Event
A Met Office spokesperson told the Press Association: "We rarely see temperatures above 35°C, even in the summer months, so to see temperatures getting close to 35 in May is, as I say, pretty historic." They added that overnight temperatures could also lead to records being broken, staying above 20°C and being "uncomfortable for sleeping."
Saturday was the first time this year that the UK had passed 30°C. The last time such temperatures occurred in May was in 2012. The exception to the heatwave is the North West of Scotland, where bank holiday Monday will be breezier and damper with thicker clouds.
Keeping Cool
Animals at London Zoo, accustomed to milder temperatures, have been given ice lollies to help them stay cool. Predators are being fed blood-based ice lollies, otters are snacking on frozen shrimp and crayfish lollies, and gorillas are hydrating with lollies made from fruit teas. At Chester Zoo, Andean bears have been fed ice blocks to ensure they stay hydrated and cool.
Heat poses a greater risk to older adults, as their bodies struggle to regulate temperature. Age UK is recommending that seniors stay indoors during the hottest hours of the day, between 11 am and 3 pm, and take regular cold baths or showers. Caroline Abrahams, Age UK Charity Director, said: "We can all help older people stay safe during periods of hot weather by checking in on older relatives, friends and neighbours to see if they need anything or are struggling with the heat. Offering to pick up shopping or medication, or even lending a fan, can make a real difference."
Water Supply Issues
The heat has also caused problems for residents in three villages in Kent. People living in Charing, Challock, and Molash near Ashford have experienced no water or low water pressure for the second day, according to BBC News. Water supply problems were first reported on Saturday evening. South East Water (SEW) said the issue was resolved overnight, but problems resumed at around 09:25 BST on Sunday due to "issues with the pumping station." The company has apologised to those affected.
