UK braces for hottest May day on record as 30C heat continues

Here is the latest breaking news from around the world: UK braces for hottest May day on record as 30C heat continuesImage source, Getty ImagesImage caption, Heatwave conditions were reached in several parts of the UK on SundayByTomasz SchafernakerBBC MeteorologistPublished41 minutes agoThe UK is likely to experience its hottest May day on record on Monday as searing heat continues. Temperatures are forecast to reach as high as 34C, breaking the previous May record of 32. 8C set more than 80 years ago.

3C recorded at Kew Gardens in south-west London on Sunday was the highest of the year so far, the Met Office said. It comes as eight regions in southern and eastern England officially entered heatwave conditions on Sunday, after three days at or above the temperature threshold. Amber heat health alerts are in place in parts of the Midlands and eastern England until at least Wednesday.

The Details

Heat predicted to peakImage caption, Monday is forecast to bring the most widespread heat of the week with all nations set for their hottest day so far this yearMonday and Tuesday are forecast to be the hottest days of the week with temperatures on both days reaching the mid-30s in southern Britain. However, Monday will bring the most widespread heat with all nations set for their hottest weather so far this year. Wales could also set a new May heat record in the next few days, surpassing the 30.

6C recorded in Newport in 1944. But it is not just daytime heat records at risk. It is possible on Monday or Tuesday night that somewhere stays warmer than the May record of 18.

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What Experts Say

The hot weather may spark a few thunderstorms in central England and Wales on Tuesday. However, they are likely to be very localised and not enough to cause a significant break from the heat. On Wednesday, a break in the heat is expected widely across much of eastern and southeastern England.

Cooler air will temporarily spread off the North Sea as some locations experience a five to 10-degree drop. However, Wales and southwestern England will remain fairly hot, sheltered from the North Sea breeze. Highs, here, could still reach 30C.

By Thursday, the supply of cooler air will be cut off as hot air resurges from France once again. This means that temperatures will increase, with 30C back on the cards. Most weather forecast models show that respite will begin next weekend and more starkly into next week.

The development has drawn wide international attention, with diplomatic circles watching closely.