The United Kingdom is experiencing a heatwave over the bank holiday weekend, with the potential for the hottest May day on record on Monday. Temperatures are forecast to reach 33C in southern England and the Midlands, surpassing the current May record of 32.8C. Highs of 28C are expected in parts of south-east England on Friday, climbing above 30C across much of England and Wales over the following days.
Official Heatwave Definition
A UK heatwave is officially recorded when an area experiences at least three consecutive days with temperatures meeting or exceeding the region's heatwave threshold. The Met Office has indicated that this threshold is likely to be met across many areas.
Met Office deputy chief forecaster Steve Kocher stated: "It is likely that the May and spring UK temperature records will be broken over the bank holiday weekend, with forecast temperatures surpassing the existing record of 32.8C."
Health Alerts Issued
Heat health alerts have been issued for much of the Midlands, eastern England, and the South East. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) yellow alerts come into force on Friday morning, with officials warning that the hot weather could cause minor disruption to health and social care services through to Wednesday.
How Long Will the Heatwave Last?
Following the expected heatwave on Saturday, Sunday, and Monday, temperatures were initially predicted to drop on Tuesday. However, the Met Office now forecasts that Tuesday will also see peaks of over 30C in some regions. On Wednesday, the highest temperatures are expected in the South West and South Wales, reaching 27C in the afternoon.
Deputy chief forecaster Greg Wolverson commented: "A very warm period of weather will develop through the weekend and into next week for much of the UK. High pressure will be in charge of the UK's weather over the bank holiday weekend, bringing fine and settled conditions to most areas. The exception will be parts of northwestern Scotland, where it will be cooler and cloudier with some rain at times. There is also a small risk of some thunder in the south late on Friday into Saturday."
Met Office Forecast Breakdown
Friday
A largely sunny day across England and Wales with some low cloud potentially affecting western coasts. Cloudier across Scotland and Northern Ireland with some occasional rain but also sunny spells. Feeling warm for most and hot towards the southeast.
Saturday
A largely sunny day, although northwest Scotland, Northern Ireland, and some western coasts elsewhere often cloudier with some patchy drizzle. Another very warm day for most.
Sunday to Tuesday
Dry and settled with plenty of sunshine, although the far northwest cloudier with some rain at times. Feeling very warm or hot by day with potentially warm nights too.
As the heatwave continues, residents are advised to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged sun exposure during peak hours, and check on vulnerable individuals. The Met Office will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as necessary.
