Britain is bracing for a historic heatwave, with forecasters predicting temperatures could hit 35C on Bank Holiday Monday, potentially making it the hottest May day ever recorded in the UK. The current all-time May record of 32.8C was set in 1944, but meteorologists say Greater London and areas up to Cambridge could exceed this significantly.
The Met Office declared official heatwave conditions in eight parts of England on Sunday, including Heathrow, Kew Gardens, and Northolt in London, as well as locations in Oxfordshire, Suffolk, and Essex. A spokesperson described the expected temperatures as "pretty historic," noting that even summer months rarely see readings above 35C. They added that overnight temperatures could remain above 20C, which would mark the first "tropical night" ever recorded in May.
The heat has already led to adjustments at sporting events. The MCC relaxed its rule requiring gentlemen to wear jackets in the Lord's pavilion for two Vitality Blast matches, and drinks breaks were introduced at Premier League games and the Championship playoff finals. With temperatures running about ten degrees above normal for this time of year, the Met Office's Tom Morgan said much of England and Wales would enjoy "wall-to-wall sunshine."
However, authorities have warned of dangers for those cooling off in the sea. The National Water Safety Forum said this is the most dangerous time of year to enter the water, as sea temperatures remain around 12-13C. Professor Mike Tipton, the forum's chair, cautioned that the cold water can trigger a shock response, including gasping and hyperventilation, which contributes to many summer drownings.
