Warmer weather is finally approaching the United Kingdom, with London forecast to experience temperatures of up to 28 degrees Celsius on Friday, potentially marking the hottest day of the year following an unusually cool May. The warm spell is expected to persist into next week across England and Wales, raising the possibility of a heatwave in London by Sunday if temperatures remain elevated.
Temperature Forecast
According to Met Office meteorologists, a heatwave in London requires three consecutive days of 28C, which is not yet certain for the upcoming weekend. However, most of England and Wales, along with parts of Scotland, are predicted to see above-average temperatures, with the south-east and East Anglia likely to be the warmest regions. The current highest temperature recorded this year was 26.6C at Kew Gardens on 8 April.
Regional Breakdown
- London and South-East: Expected to reach 28C on Friday, with warm weather continuing into the weekend.
- East Anglia: Likely to be among the warmest areas, with temperatures well above average.
- Wales and Southern Scotland: Also forecast to enjoy above-average temperatures, though slightly cooler than the south-east.
This sudden rise in temperature comes after a notably cool and wet May, which saw many regions experiencing below-average temperatures and frequent rain. The shift to warmer weather is welcomed by many, but the Met Office advises that the heatwave threshold remains uncertain.
What to Expect
If the warm conditions persist, London could declare its first heatwave of the year by Sunday. The Met Office continues to monitor the situation and will provide updates as the forecast becomes clearer. Residents are advised to stay hydrated and take precautions during the warmer weather, especially those with health conditions sensitive to heat.
