The United Kingdom has recorded its hottest May day in at least 79 years, with temperatures soaring to 32.3 degrees Celsius at Kew Gardens in south-west London on Sunday. This historic heatwave is expected to intensify further on Monday, potentially breaking records for the warmest bank holiday Monday ever.
Temperature Records Across the UK
Parts of the UK were as hot as the Mediterranean, with Sunday's peak of 32.3C at Kew Gardens. However, Monday's temperatures are predicted to climb even higher, reaching 34C in Greater London and across south-east England. Wales and Northern Ireland also set 2026 records, with 27.4C in Cardiff and 23.4C in Armagh, respectively. Scotland saw highs of 23.5C in Edinburgh, just 0.1C below the current May record of 23.6C in Aboyne on May 1.
Heatwave Conditions Met
The Met Office confirmed that heatwave criteria have been met in eight locations across England: Heathrow in Greater London, Benson in Oxfordshire, Brooms Barn in Suffolk, High Beech in Essex, Kew Gardens, Northolt, 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 27C for three consecutive days. Heathrow followed closely at 11:50 am, requiring three consecutive days at 28C.
Tom Morgan, a Met Office meteorologist, described the situation as "pretty historic," noting that temperatures rarely exceed 35C even in summer. He warned that overnight temperatures could also break records, staying above 20C and making sleep uncomfortable.
Health Warnings and Advice
Heat poses greater risks for older adults, as their bodies struggle to regulate temperature. Age UK recommends that seniors stay indoors between 11 am and 3 pm, the hottest hours, and take regular cold baths or showers. Caroline Abrahams, Age UK charity director, urged people to check on older relatives, friends, and neighbours, offering help with shopping or lending a fan.
Animals Keep Cool
London Zoo has provided ice lollies to animals unaccustomed to such heat. Predators receive blood-based ice lollies, otters enjoy frozen shrimp and crayfish treats, and gorillas hydrate with fruit tea lollies. At Chester Zoo, Andean bears are given ice blocks to stay cool and hydrated.
Water Supply Issues in Kent
The heatwave has exacerbated water supply problems in three Kent villages: Charing, Challock, and Molash near Ashford. Residents experienced no water or low pressure for a second day. South East Water (SEW) resolved the issue overnight but reported further problems at 9:25 am on Sunday due to a pumping station fault. The company has apologised to affected customers.
