The United Kingdom has experienced its hottest day of the year so far, with temperatures reaching 30.5°C in Kent. The Met Office confirmed that this is the first time since 2012 that the UK has seen 30°C in May.
Forecasters predict that the hot weather will continue over the bank holiday weekend, with the possibility of breaking the May temperature record of 32.8°C, set in 1922 and 1944. Temperatures could reach 33°C in southern England and the Midlands on Monday.
The UK Health Security Agency has issued amber heat health alerts for several regions, including the East Midlands, West Midlands, east of England, London, and the south-east. These alerts indicate a potential rise in deaths, particularly among the elderly and those with health conditions, and increased demand on health services.
Yellow alerts are in place for the north-east, north-west, Yorkshire and Humber, and the south-west. UV levels are expected to be high across much of the UK, with a UV index of seven forecast in Manchester on Sunday.
