Temperatures of up to 30C are forecast for the UK over the Bank Holiday weekend, with parts of the country set to be hotter than popular Greek holiday destinations such as Mykonos, Rhodes and Santorini, according to meteorologists.
Heatwave Developing Across the UK
The Met Office has indicated that the UK could experience its warmest day of the year so far as a heatwave develops over the coming days. Forecaster Tom Morgan stated there is a 40% chance temperatures could climb to 33C in parts of southern England on Sunday, which would make it the warmest May day on record. The current May temperature record stands at 32.8C, recorded in Camden Square, London, in 1922.
Heat Health Alerts Issued
As the heat builds, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued heat health alerts covering much of the Midlands, eastern England and south-east England. The agency warned of “minor impacts” across health and social care services, including increased demand from vulnerable people, hotter indoor environments and a higher risk of water-related incidents.
Temperature Breakdown by Region
Temperatures are expected to reach 28C in parts of England on Friday before climbing above 30C across several areas over the following three days, Mr Morgan said. Wales could also meet heatwave criteria by Sunday, while parts of Scotland and Northern Ireland are forecast to see temperatures reaching the mid-20s by next week.
Mr Morgan commented: “This is a prolonged period of high temperatures.” A UK heatwave is officially recorded when an area experiences at least three consecutive days with temperatures meeting or exceeding the region’s heatwave threshold.
The warmest day recorded in the UK so far this year was 26.6C at Kew Gardens in south-west London in April. With the upcoming heat, the UK is set to surpass this significantly, potentially breaking records and prompting public health precautions.
