Temperatures are expected to soar up to 33C during the upcoming Bank Holiday weekend with the Met Office predicting an official heatwave. The forecast indicates a rise to 30C on Saturday, climbing to 32C on Sunday, and peaking at a scorching 33C on Monday, potentially setting a new record for the hottest May temperature ever recorded.
The south-east of England is anticipated to be the hottest region, but official heatwave conditions may also be observed in central and western England, as well as parts of Wales, as per the Met Office. A heatwave is officially declared when temperatures exceed the heatwave threshold for three consecutive days, with the threshold ranging from 25C to 28C across different regions.
Rare occurrences of reaching 30°C in May have been noted in the UK, with historical records showcasing significant high temperatures during the month. The highest recorded temperature in May stands at 32.8°C, with notable instances in various locations like Greater London and southeast England during past years. These occurrences have mostly been concentrated in southern and southeastern England due to factors like proximity to continental Europe and minimal cloud cover, which favor warm conditions during stable weather.
Looking ahead, the Met Office forecasts a gradual decrease in temperatures post the Bank Holiday weekend, although remaining above normal levels. The weather is expected to stay pleasant for most areas, with some sporadic rain in the far north and possibly a few showers in the far south. The outlook suggests temperatures above normal, occasionally feeling very warm with light breezes.
Yellow heat health alerts have been issued by the UKHSA for multiple regions, highlighting potential minor impacts on health and social services due to the hot weather. As the mercury rises, it is essential for individuals to take precautions and stay safe, especially by following advice provided by organizations like the Met Office and RNLI to prevent heat-related issues and ensure well-being during the warm spell.
