UK 26C Heatwave: 10 Hottest Counties Listed in New Weather Maps

Weather maps indicate that the United Kingdom is poised for a significant warm spell in the coming days, with temperatures potentially soaring to 26 degrees Celsius in the southeast. The latest forecasts highlight a high-pressure system bringing sunshine and warmth, particularly to southern England, while Scotland may experience cooler conditions.

Forecast for May 5

According to weather maps from Ventusky, the hottest temperatures are expected to reach 26C in Essex and Kent on May 5. Other counties in the south, including Hertfordshire, Middlesex, Surrey, Cambridgeshire, Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Suffolk, and Berkshire, are predicted to see temperatures in the mid-20s Celsius. This would rival the hottest day of the year so far, which occurred on April 8, when Kew Gardens in London recorded 26.6C.

North-South Divide

However, a clear north-south divide is expected. While much of England will enjoy temperatures of 20C or higher on May 5, Scotland will be noticeably cooler, with central and northern parts dropping to single figures. The high pressure that has brought settled weather in recent days is predicted to return after a brief unsettled period at the end of April.

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Met Office Outlook

The Met Office's forecast for the period from April 29 to May 8 suggests dry conditions with sunny spells and light winds, though overnight mist and fog are possible. Temperatures are expected to be close to or slightly above normal. However, into the first week of May, conditions may become more changeable, with an increasing chance of showers or longer spells of rain and a risk of strong winds.

Looking further ahead, the outlook from May 9 to 23 indicates that low-pressure systems could dominate, bringing frequent showers or longer periods of rain, potentially heavy in places with strong winds. Temperatures during this period are likely to be close to or slightly below normal, though more settled and drier conditions may develop later in the month, with temperatures possibly rising slightly above normal.