The UK's sweltering heatwave has reached a boiling point, with temperatures soaring to 28.6°C on Monday in what is now the hottest May on record. As the mercury rises, fans and cooling products are flying off the shelves, with retailers struggling to keep up with demand.
Met Office data shows the prolonged hot spell will persist throughout May, with temperatures expected to remain above average. Fans are being snapped up at a rate of three per minute, while sales of ice cubes have tripled as shoppers scramble for any cooling solution they can find – from ice baths to eye masks.
The country's inadequate housing stock, often lacking effective insulation and air conditioning, is exacerbating the problem. Retailers are feeling the strain, reporting stock shortages and lengthy delivery times as consumers clamour for relief from the heat.
Regional temperature variations show England's south-east bearing the brunt of the heatwave, with Monday's reading reaching 29.1°C. Scotland has seen temperatures slightly lower at 23.1°C, while Wales' readings have been more variable, ranging from 22.2°C to 25.3°C. Northern Ireland has been the coolest area, but still above average, at 18.9°C to 22.2°C.
The Met Office has issued a yellow warning for heatwave conditions across the UK, advising residents to stay indoors during the hottest part of the day, hydrate regularly and avoid strenuous activity. Neighbours are also urged to check on vulnerable individuals – such as the elderly and young children – and keep an eye on pets.