The UK has experienced its hottest day of the year to date, with temperatures soaring across the country. According to the Met Office, the mercury hit a scorching high of 28.7 degrees Celsius in St James's Park, London.
Heatwave warnings have been issued for multiple regions, including South East England, London, and Southeast England, where people are advised to stay hydrated, wear protective clothing, and seek shade when possible. The Met Office recommends checking on vulnerable neighbours, especially the elderly, and staying indoors during the hottest part of the day.
Regional breakdowns show that temperatures varied across the UK. In the South East, a maximum temperature of 28.5 degrees Celsius was recorded in Gravesend, while London reached 28.7 degrees Celsius in St James's Park. Southeast England saw temperatures peak at 28.2 degrees Celsius in Rochester.
While these temperatures may seem high for the time of year, they are not unusual for late April, when average highs typically range from 12-15 degrees Celsius across the UK. However, the prolonged period of hot weather is causing concern among authorities and health experts.