UK weather maps indicate that a -1C freeze is set to bring an end to the ongoing heatwave, with temperatures dropping significantly after the Bank Holiday weekend. The Met Office has forecast record-breaking conditions over the weekend, with highs of 31C on Saturday, 32C on Sunday, and a potential 33C on Monday—which would be a new May temperature record. Tuesday could also see 32C. However, the GFS weather model now shows a sharp decline in temperatures from Sunday next week.
Temperature Drop Details
Temperature anomaly maps reveal deep blue areas across the UK, particularly in Northern Ireland, Scotland, the Midlands, and eastern England, indicating temperatures well below the seasonal average. Minimum possible temperature maps show the mercury could drop as low as -1C in Scotland around 6am on May 31. Lows of 1C are possible in Northern Ireland, with 3C in eastern England. Only five counties in the south-west of England—Hampshire, Dorset, Devon, Cornwall, and Somerset—are expected to reach 10C or above on that morning.
Heatwave Conditions
The Met Office Deputy Chief Forecaster Steve Kocher stated, "It is likely that the May and Spring UK temperature records will be broken over the Bank Holiday weekend." The current record stands at 32.8C. Heatwave conditions are expected to be reached in parts of the south-east on Sunday and could spread across central and western England and into parts of Wales.
The British Red Cross has issued guidance to help people stay safe during the heatwave. Dafydd Beech, National Community Education Manager, advised: "As we come into the summer months, warm weather gives us a chance to get out a bit more and enjoy ourselves. 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. Getting into the habit of taking steps whenever temperatures rise can really help. It can be simple things like wearing sunscreen, drinking plenty of fluids or ensuring you take breaks from the sun. Building these habits early means people are better prepared if hotter weather lasts longer."
