London has recorded its highest May temperature on record, reaching 35C on Tuesday, as the UK heatwave continues to cause severe travel disruption and health concerns. The new record comes just one day after the previous all-time high of 32.8C, set in 1922 and 1944, was broken at Kew Gardens.
The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for thunderstorms across much of England, with isolated storms expected between 3pm and 10pm. Senior meteorologist Becky Mitchell warned that temperatures could creep up to 36C in southern England, the Midlands, East Anglia, and South Wales.
The UK Health Security Agency has amber health alerts in place, warning of significant impacts on health and social care services. Londoners are advised to be vigilant for heatstroke, a medical emergency requiring immediate treatment, especially for vulnerable people and children. Symptoms include confusion, temperature over 40C, nausea, vomiting, and seizures, with sufferers not sweating.
Travel services are struggling to cope with the heat, with train services experiencing meltdown. The London Fire Brigade has also warned of an increased risk of wildfires, urging people to take care with barbecues and avoid using them on balconies or near flammable materials.
The heatwave is expected to last several days, with temperatures likely to remain around 30C for the rest of the week. This historic weather event has been described by the Met Office as 'pretty historic', with temperatures above 35C rarely seen even in summer months.
