Forecast models indicate a potential heatwave with temperatures reaching up to 27C over a four-day period later this month. On May 22, the ECMWF model suggests highs of 26C, particularly in the vicinity of London, with temperatures around 23C to 24C in Wales, central England, and the eastern regions.
Moving to May 23, the weather maps show peak temperatures of 27C in the southeast and 26C in the Midlands. In most parts of England below Yorkshire, temperatures could hit 24C, while South Wales may see highs of 25C.
On May 24, the ECMWF model projects highs of 26C along the south coast of England, with similar temperatures expected in the West Midlands and near London. Some areas in southern Scotland might experience 22C by evening.
The warm spell is expected to conclude on May 25, with potential highs of 25C in southern and western regions. Weather maps indicate that 18 counties could witness temperatures at or above 25C throughout the four-day period.
The Met Office anticipates temperatures to turn “rather warm” towards the end of May, especially in southern regions, as high pressure builds up from the south, bringing more settled weather. The forecast for May 17 to 26 suggests initially cooler temperatures, gradually warming up by the end of the period, particularly in the south.
Whether an official heatwave will occur this month remains uncertain. Official heatwaves are declared when temperatures meet or surpass the heatwave threshold for three consecutive days, which ranges from 25C to 28C across the UK, with the threshold higher in the south-east and lower in the north.
