Britain is experiencing an exceptional heatwave, with Bank Holiday Monday forecast to reach a blistering 35°C, potentially making it the hottest May day on record. The current all-time record for May of 32.8°C, set in 1944, is expected to be broken as temperatures climb across southern England and the Midlands.
The Met Office confirmed that official heatwave conditions have been met in eight parts of England, including Heathrow, Kew Gardens, and areas in Oxfordshire, Suffolk, and Essex. Sunday saw the hottest day of the year so far, with Kew Gardens recording 30.9°C, the highest for 74 years. Forecasters predict that Greater London and regions up to Cambridge could see up to 35°C on Monday, hotter than Barbados which is experiencing a milder 29°C.
Met Office meteorologist Tom Morgan described the event as 'historic', noting that temperatures are ten degrees higher than normal for this time of year. Overnight temperatures could also break records, staying above 20°C, making it uncomfortable for sleeping. The heatwave has led to relaxed dress codes at Lord's cricket ground and additional drinks breaks at Premier League matches.
Despite the hot air temperatures, the National Water Safety Forum has warned swimmers about cold water shock, as water temperatures remain around 12-13°C. Professor Mike Tipton cautioned that this is the most dangerous time of year to enter the water, as the cold shock response can cause hyperventilation and increase the workload on the heart.
