An amber health warning has been extended by 24 hours for several regions in England as temperatures are expected to soar to 35°C on what could be the hottest May day since records began.
Extended Warning Across England
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said amber alerts for the South West, South East, London, East and West Midlands, and the East of England will remain in place until 5pm on Thursday, May 28. Yellow alerts have been issued for the North West and North East. The alerts had previously been in place until 5pm on Wednesday, May 27, while the yellow alert for the South West has been escalated to amber.
Record-Breaking Temperatures
On Monday, the UK experienced its provisional all-time hottest meteorological spring temperature on record when Kew Gardens in south-west London reached 34.8°C. The hottest May temperature could be broken again on Tuesday, with highs of 35°C forecast across large swathes of southern England and Wales, possibly reaching 36°C, according to the Met Office.
Thunderstorm Warnings
However, the heat may be tempered by thunderstorms. Thunderstorm warnings have been issued for parts of the South West, West Midlands, East Midlands, and East of England between 3pm and 10pm on Tuesday. The Met Office said isolated thunderstorms with lightning, hail, and gusty winds are expected, with potential for 30mm of rain in less than an hour.
Travel Advice
The RAC has warned drivers to ensure their windscreen wipers are fit for purpose ahead of the storms. "With thunderstorms forecast which could result in 30mm of rain in less than an hour, it's vital windscreen wipers are fit for purpose," a spokesperson said. The RAC noted a 20% increase in car breakdowns over the bank holiday weekend.
Tropical Nights
The UK experienced a "tropical night" on Monday, as the record for the warmest minimum temperature for May was broken for the second consecutive day. Temperatures did not fall below 20°C overnight in parts of the UK, with 21.3°C recorded at Kenley Airfield, south London. Met Office chief forecaster Andy Page said the "exceptional" late-spring heat will continue, with more tropical nights expected.
Impact on Hospitality and Health
Chair of UKHospitality Kate Nicholls said the hot spell has provided a "welcome lift" to the hospitality industry amid a tough economic outlook. Meanwhile, Age UK recommended staying indoors during the hottest hours of the day, between 11am and 3pm, and taking regular cold baths or showers. The AA warned that vehicle interiors can reach 60°C when outside temperatures are 27°C, posing dangers for vulnerable groups.
