The UK experienced one of its hottest April days in 80 years on Wednesday, with temperatures reaching 26.5C in Kew Gardens, south-west London, according to the Met Office. This marks the warmest day of the year so far and the hottest first half of April since 1946.
The Met Office attributed the warm spell to high pressure drawing warm air north across the UK. Central, southern and eastern England saw temperatures well above average for early April. London was hotter than popular holiday destinations such as Ibiza, Rome and Marrakech.
Wednesday's high surpassed the previous 2024 record of 24.8C set on Tuesday in Mona, Anglesey, Wales. However, the Met Office stated that this week's weather does not meet the definition of a heatwave, which requires temperatures above 24C or 27C for three consecutive days, depending on the region.
The hot weather coincided with peak pollen season, with ash and birch pollen levels remaining very high. Meteorologist Tom Morgan noted that temperatures in the mid-20s are uncommon for this time of year, but the heat is brief. Thursday is expected to bring rain and cooler, showery weather moving south-east across the UK.
