The UK is set to experience a dramatic temperature drop next week, with lows of -1C forecast in Scotland, ending the current heatwave that is expected to peak over the Bank Holiday weekend.
The Met Office predicts highs of 31C on Saturday, 32C on Sunday, and a possible record-breaking 33C on Monday, which would be the highest May temperature on record. The current record stands at 32.8C. The south-east will be the warmest region, with heatwave conditions also possible in the Midlands and parts of Wales.
However, weather models indicate a sharp cooldown from Sunday next week. Temperature anomaly maps show deep blue across Northern Ireland, Scotland, the Midlands and eastern England, indicating temperatures well below the seasonal average. Minimum temperatures could drop to -1C in Scotland around 6am, 1C in Northern Ireland, and 3C in eastern England. Only five counties in south-west England are expected to reach double figures.
Met Office Deputy Chief Forecaster Steve Kocher said: “It is likely that the May and Spring UK temperature records will be broken over the Bank Holiday weekend.” The British Red Cross has issued safety guidance, with National Community Education Manager Dafydd Beech advising: “It’s important to take care while you have fun with friends and family to avoid becoming dehydrated, getting sun burn or even heat stroke.”
