UK Bank Holiday Heatwave: Amber Alerts Issued as Temperatures Hit 33°C

Amber Heat Health Alerts have been issued across central and southern England, effective from 2pm on Friday, May 22, 2026, until 5pm on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, as the UK braces for a bank holiday heatwave. This alert covers the East Midlands, West Midlands, East of England, London, and the South East, indicating a likely increase in health risks for vulnerable people.

Yellow Heat Health Alerts are also in place for the North East, North West, South West, and Yorkshire and the Humber regions for the same period. These alerts signify potentially significant impacts on health and social services, particularly for those over 75 or with existing health conditions, according to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).

What is happening right now

Temperatures are set to climb significantly through the bank holiday weekend. Met Office Deputy Chief Forecaster, Steve Kocher, stated, "Temperatures will climb through the weekend, especially in the south, where 30°C is likely to be recorded on Saturday and 32°C on Sunday."

The heat is forecast to peak on Monday, May 25, when southern England and the Midlands could see temperatures reach 33°C. There is a 40% chance that Sunday, May 24, could break the current May record of 32.8°C, which was set in 1922 and 1944, making it the hottest May day ever recorded in the UK.

Heatwave thresholds, defined as three consecutive days at or above a set temperature, are likely to be reached from Sunday, May 24, in southeastern England. These conditions are expected to become more widespread into next week, extending across central and western England and into parts of Wales, as temperatures remain well above average.

Who is affected

The UKHSA warns that even moderate heat can lead to serious health problems, especially for older people and those with certain health conditions. Dr Anya Gopfert, Consultant in Health Protection at UKHSA, advises that "it's important that everyone takes simple precautions while enjoying the warm weather over the coming days."

Amber alerts specifically highlight an increased risk to health for individuals aged over 65 years or those with pre-existing health conditions, including respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. High UV levels will also be a concern, with a UV index of seven expected in Cardiff and London on Saturday, and in Manchester on Sunday.

What to do immediately

Take these steps to protect yourself and others during the heatwave:

1. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, even if you don't feel thirsty.
2. Seek shade during the hottest parts of the day, typically between 11am and 3pm.
3. Wear light, loose-fitting clothing and a wide-brimmed hat when outdoors.
4. Apply high-factor sunscreen regularly to protect against high UV levels.
5. Check in on vulnerable friends, family, and neighbours, ensuring they are aware of the forecasts and following necessary advice.
6. Keep your home cool by closing curtains on rooms that face the sun.

What this means for you

You should take proactive steps to protect yourself and vulnerable individuals from the heat, especially if you live in areas under Amber or Yellow Heat Health Alerts. This includes staying hydrated, seeking shade, and checking on older or unwell neighbours.

The other side

While much of the UK will experience intense heat, Northern Ireland and western Scotland are forecast to see more cloud and some showers, with cooler temperatures. Met Office Deputy Chief Forecaster, Steve Kocher, noted there will also likely be some low cloud and sea fog clinging closely to western coasts due to relatively low sea surface temperatures.

The Environment Agency confirms a very low flood risk across England for the next five days, with no active storm alerts for the bank holiday weekend. Met Office forecasts suggest widespread rain could move in from the Atlantic on the evening of May 31, 2026, with showers impacting all 92 counties across the UK by June 1 and 2, potentially ending the heatwave.