Amber heat health alerts have been issued across the UK after the Met Office forecast a 33C heatwave over the Bank Holiday weekend. The alerts cover the East Midlands, West Midlands, London, East of England, and South East, where the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) warns that 'significant impacts are likely across health and social care services due to the high temperatures.' Yellow alerts have been issued for the rest of England.
Temperatures are expected to reach 31C on Saturday, 32C on Sunday, 33C on Monday, and 32C on Tuesday, potentially making this the hottest May on record. The current record stands at 32.8C.
Key Developments
Temperature Predictions
The Met Office's latest forecast predicts highs of 31C on Saturday, 32C on Sunday, 33C on Monday, and 32C on Tuesday, indicating a heatwave lasting at least four days. BBC Weather forecasts 29C on Saturday, 31C on Sunday, and 32C on Monday and Tuesday, with a drop to 24C on Wednesday.
Heat Health Alerts
The UKHSA upgraded the heat health alert from yellow to amber for the East Midlands, West Midlands, East of England, London, and South East. Yellow alerts remain for southwest England and northern England until 5pm on Wednesday. An amber alert indicates potential impacts on the entire population and NHS, with travel disruption likely.
Warmest Day of 2026
Today, a temperature of 26.9C was recorded at Heathrow, making it the warmest day of 2026 so far, surpassing the previous record of 26.6C set on April 8 at Kew Gardens.
Safety Advice
Staying Cool
The Met Office advises carrying water, drinking plenty of fluids, and dressing in light fabrics and colours. Using ice packs on wrists, neck, and elbows can help cool down quickly. A hand-held battery fan is also recommended.
Public Transport
Network Rail advises commuters to check before travelling, allow extra time, carry water, and avoid boarding if feeling unwell. Southern Railway warns trains may be busier than usual, especially on coastal routes.
Water Safety
The RNLI recommends choosing lifeguarded beaches, swimming between red and yellow flags, and knowing how to float to live: tilt head back, relax, and move hands and feet to stay afloat. Sea temperatures are still low, ranging from 9C around Scotland to 13C off southwest England.
Sun Safety
Cancer Research UK reports record high melanoma cases and urges sun safety. The Met Office warns of moderate to high UV levels this weekend, advising sun cream use.
Regional Impacts
Temperature anomaly maps show deep red across the country on Monday, indicating temperatures well above seasonal averages. The heatwave is expected to continue into next week, with the Met Office forecasting 'very warm' conditions from May 27 to June 5.
The London Fire Brigade warns against disposable barbecues due to heightened wildfire risk, following wet weather and a dry April.
