The United Kingdom witnessed its hottest May day in at least 79 years on Sunday, with temperatures soaring to levels typically seen in the Mediterranean. According to the Met Office, a high of 32.1 degrees Celsius was recorded at Heathrow, marking a historic milestone. Forecasts indicate that Monday, which is a bank holiday, could be even warmer, with temperatures potentially reaching 34 degrees Celsius in Greater London and across southeastern England.
Record-Breaking Temperatures Across the UK
Wales and Northern Ireland also set new records for 2026 on Sunday. Cardiff reached 27.4 degrees Celsius, while Armagh in Northern Ireland recorded 23.4 degrees Celsius. In Scotland, Edinburgh saw a high of 23.5 degrees Celsius, just 0.1 degrees shy of the current May record of 23.6 degrees Celsius set in Aboyne on May 1.
The Met Office confirmed that heatwave conditions have now been met in eight locations across England. These include 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 AM, with a heatwave threshold of 27 degrees Celsius for three consecutive days. Heathrow followed shortly after at 11:50 AM, requiring three consecutive days at 28 degrees Celsius.
Meteorologist Comments on Historic Weather
Tom Morgan, a meteorologist at the Met Office, described the event as "pretty historic," noting that temperatures above 35 degrees Celsius are rare even in summer. He added that overnight temperatures could also break records, staying above 20 degrees Celsius and making sleep uncomfortable. Saturday was the first time this year that the UK surpassed 30 degrees Celsius, and Sunday exceeded that, becoming the hottest May day since 1947.
While much of England will experience intense heat on Monday, northwestern Scotland is expected to have breezier and damper conditions with thicker cloud cover.
Health Advice for Vulnerable Groups
Heat poses particular risks to older adults, as their bodies struggle to regulate temperature. Age UK recommends that older individuals remain indoors during the hottest hours, between 11 AM and 3 PM, and take regular cold baths or showers. Caroline Abrahams, charity director at Age UK, emphasized the importance of community support: "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."
Animals at Zoos Keep Cool
At London Zoo, animals accustomed to milder temperatures have been given ice lollies to help them stay cool. Predators are receiving blood-based ice lollies, otters are enjoying frozen shrimp and crayfish treats, and gorillas are hydrating with fruit tea lollies. Similarly, at Chester Zoo, Andean bears have been provided with ice blocks to maintain hydration and coolness.
Water Supply Issues in Kent
The heatwave has also led to water supply problems in Kent. Residents of three villages—Charing, Challock, and Molash near Ashford—experienced no water or low water pressure for a second consecutive day, according to BBC News. Issues first arose on Saturday evening. South East Water (SEW) reported that the problem was resolved overnight but resumed around 9:25 AM on Sunday due to pumping station issues. The company has apologized to affected customers.
