A scorching heatwave with temperatures reaching 35C is expected to engulf the UK during this bank holiday weekend, drawing crowds to beaches in what is being called “May’s fiery flip-flop.” Following a period of cold weather, meteorologists are forecasting a potentially record-breaking heatwave over the late May bank holiday. Some regions could experience temperatures 2-3 degrees Celsius higher than the previous May record on Monday.
British Weather Services’ senior meteorologist, Jim Dale, mentioned that the intense heat is making a strong comeback after a recent drop in temperatures to near-freezing levels earlier in the week. The sudden rise in heat is attributed to an African plume following closely behind an Arctic polar front.
Monday of the bank holiday weekend is anticipated to be the hottest day, with London potentially hitting a remarkable 35C, nearly breaking the previous May record by 3 degrees. Other counties such as Essex, Suffolk, Norfolk, Cambridgeshire, and more could also experience scorching temperatures.
In the northern regions, record-breaking temperatures are still expected locally, with parts of Scotland and the north-west of England predicted to reach up to 29C. The meteorologist highlighted the possibility of temperatures exceeding 32.8C, with some models suggesting even higher temperatures due to climate change influences.
The weekend is expected to start with temperatures around 24-25C on Saturday, with some thundery showers. Sunday may see temperatures rise to 27-28C, gearing up for a significant leap on Bank Holiday Monday. The Met Office also emphasized that the peak heat is likely to occur on Monday, with high pressure prevailing across the UK.
An amber heat health alert has been issued for the East of England, warning of potential disruptions in health and social care services due to high indoor temperatures. The alert will be active from Friday afternoon until Wednesday evening.
