The UK has recorded its hottest day of the year so far, with temperatures reaching 30.5C in Frittenden, Kent, on Saturday. The Met Office confirmed this is the first time since 2012 that the UK has reached 30C in May.
Forecasters predict even higher temperatures over the bank holiday weekend, with the UK potentially seeing its hottest May day on record on Monday. Temperatures could reach 33C in southern England and the Midlands, while Sunday is expected to see 31C in the south and around 26C in the north.
The current May temperature record stands at 32.8C, logged in 1922 in Camden Square, north London, and matched in 1944 in Horsham, Tunbridge Wells, and Regent's Park. UV levels will be high across much of the UK, with a UV index of seven forecast for Manchester on Sunday.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued amber heat health alerts for the East Midlands, West Midlands, east of England, London, and south-east, in place until 5pm on Wednesday. These alerts warn of a likely rise in deaths, particularly among those aged 65 and over or with health conditions, and increased demand on health services.
Yellow alerts have been issued for the north-east, north-west, Yorkshire and Humber, and south-west. Greg Dewhurst, senior meteorologist at the Met Office, said high pressure will dominate the bank holiday weekend, bringing plenty of sunshine across England and Wales, while Scotland and Northern Ireland will see more cloud and possible showers.
