The Met Office confirms temperatures are set to peak at 33°C in southern England and the Midlands on Monday, May 25, 2026, with a high likelihood of breaking the UK's all-time May temperature record.
The existing May record stands at 32.8°C, last recorded in 1944. This follows Saturday, May 23, 2026, which saw the hottest day of the year so far at 30.5°C in Frittenden, Kent.
Heat-Health Alerts in Effect
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued amber heat-health alerts for the East Midlands, West Midlands, the East of England, London, and the South East. These alerts are in place from Friday, May 22, 2026, at 2 pm until Wednesday, May 27, 2026, at 5 pm.
Less severe yellow alerts cover the North East, North West, Yorkshire and Humber, and the South West of England. These alerts signify that impacts are likely to be felt across the health and social care sector due to the high temperatures.
The heatwave is expected to continue until at least Wednesday, May 27, 2026. Temperatures are forecast to exceed 20°C across the entire UK, including Scotland and Wales, with some areas experiencing warmer conditions than parts of Greece.
What to do immediately
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids, even if you don't feel thirsty. Avoid excessive alcohol.
- Seek Shade: Stay out of direct sun, especially between 11 am and 3 pm when the sun is strongest.
- Keep Cool: Wear light, loose-fitting clothing. Take cool showers or baths.
- Check on Vulnerable People: Look out for elderly relatives, young children, and those with underlying health conditions who are more susceptible to heat-related illness.
- Travel Safely: If travelling, ensure you have water and plan for potential delays or hotter conditions in vehicles.
What this means for you
The prolonged high temperatures, particularly in amber alert areas, pose a risk to health. You should take proactive steps to stay cool and hydrated, and be aware of the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Vulnerable individuals, including the elderly and very young children, are at particular risk and require extra care.
But there are risks
Met Office scientists have conducted a climate attribution study, which indicates that the chances of the UK experiencing temperatures above 30°C in May have increased due to climate change. This highlights a growing trend towards more frequent and intense heat events, suggesting that such alerts may become more common in future.
What happens next
The heatwave and associated health alerts are expected to remain in place until Wednesday, May 27, 2026. The Met Office will continue to monitor conditions, and the UKHSA will update health advice as necessary. Stay informed via official Met Office forecasts and UKHSA guidance.
Sources
- Met Office — Temperature forecasts and record data
- UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) — Heat-health alert levels and timings