An 'unprecedented' May heatwave is set to grip parts of England on Monday, with temperatures projected to climb as high as 35C. This forecast, issued by the Met Office, indicates that the UK is poised to record its hottest May day by a substantial margin. The current record for May in the UK stands at 32.8C, meaning the anticipated temperatures could surpass this by over 2 degrees Celsius.
A spokesperson for the Met Office confirmed the severity of the situation, stating, 'Today will be the hottest day in May in the UK in our temperature records, with highs of 35C expected. The current May record is 32.8C. Records are usually only broken by fractions of a degree, making this forecast particularly notable.' This significant increase over previous records highlights the unusual nature of this early-season heat.
While the most extreme temperatures are expected in central and southern England, other regions of the UK will also experience considerably warmer conditions. Wales is forecast to see temperatures in the high 20s, potentially reaching 28C in some areas. Scotland and Northern Ireland will also experience a notable rise, with parts of both nations expecting temperatures in the low to mid-20s, significantly above the May average.
The duration and intensity of this heatwave are prompting concerns about the broader weather outlook for the summer. Forecasters are already discussing the potential for a 'super El Niño' summer, a phenomenon often associated with global temperature increases and extreme weather events. This early and intense heat event could be an indicator of a challenging summer ahead for the UK.
In light of the extreme heat, the Met Office and public health bodies are advising the public to take precautions. Practical safety advice includes staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water, avoiding strenuous activity during the hottest parts of the day (typically 11 am to 3 pm), seeking shade, and wearing light, loose-fitting clothing. Individuals with underlying health conditions, the elderly, and young children are particularly vulnerable to heat-related illnesses and should take extra care.
Motorists are also advised to be prepared for potential disruptions, including the risk of overheating vehicles and surface melting on roads. Pet owners should ensure their animals have access to shade and fresh water, and never leave pets in parked cars, even for short periods.
Source: Met Office