The Met Office has forecast that Friday could be the hottest day of the year so far, with temperatures expected to reach 28°C in parts of the UK. This warm spell is set to arrive just in time for the Bank Holiday weekend, following a cooler and unsettled start to the week.
Current Record to Be Broken
The current record for the hottest day in 2026 was set on April 8, when Kew Gardens recorded 26.6°C. However, this is likely to be surpassed, as the Met Office predicts London could hit 27°C on Friday and potentially 30°C over the weekend. Other regions, including Manchester, Bristol, and Swansea, are also expected to experience high temperatures, with Manchester possibly reaching 29°C by Sunday, Bristol 28°C, and Swansea 27°C.
Cautious Optimism from Experts
Sky News weather producer Jo Robinson expressed caution about temperatures reaching the 30s this weekend, noting a "small chance" of 30°C in some areas, which she described as "quite rare for May." However, even if the mercury does not hit 30°C this weekend, it may not be long before it does. The GFS weather model suggests that temperatures could surge as high as 32°C on June 3, with the warmest conditions expected in the south-east. The north-west and parts of Yorkshire could also see 30°C, while southern Scotland may reach 27°C, Wales 26°C, and Northern Ireland 25°C.
Temperature Anomaly Maps
Temperature anomaly maps indicate that the entire country will be covered in deep red and orange on June 3, signifying temperatures well above the seasonal average. This suggests a prolonged period of warm weather.
Met Office Forecast for the Week
In its outlook for Thursday to Saturday, the Met Office states: "Turning drier, brighter and warmer through Thursday. Very warm on Friday and Saturday, although some rain or thundery showers are possible at times." Tony Wisson, deputy chief forecaster at the Met Office, added that many parts of the country will enjoy "warm, fine and settled weather" continuing through to Sunday and Monday. He noted the chance of thundery rain in some areas but emphasized that temperatures should remain warm or very warm through the weekend.
