The UK Met Office is forecasting a record-breaking heatwave with temperatures reaching up to 33°C [1] during the bank holiday weekend.
This weather pattern is significant because it represents an unseasonably warm period that could set the earliest 30°C mark in the UK since 1952 [2]. The intensity of the heat has prompted the UK Health Security Agency to issue amber heat-health alerts across England and Wales [3].
Forecasters expect the peak heat to hit on Monday, May 22, particularly in southern England and the Midlands [1]. The Met Office said temperatures are expected to reach as high as 33°C [1] in those regions. The heatwave is expected to persist through Wednesday, May 24 [4].
Amber alerts are currently in place for London, the Midlands, and eastern and south-east England [5]. These alerts signal that the heat may have a significant impact on the health and wellbeing of the population, particularly the elderly, and those with pre-existing conditions.
BBC Weather said the warmest weather of the year is forecast over the bank holiday weekend [2]. While some reports highlight a 30°C threshold [2], the Met Office said temperatures could climb higher to 33°C [1].
The unseasonably warm pattern is pushing temperatures to levels rarely seen in May [6]. Local authorities in London and southern regions are monitoring the situation as residents prepare for the spike in temperature.
“Temperatures expected to reach as high as 33 °C in southern England or the Midlands on Monday.”
The issuance of amber alerts during May indicates a shift in seasonal temperature norms. Because the UK's infrastructure and population are not typically acclimated to 30°C+ heat this early in the year, the risk of heat-related illness is higher than it would be during a traditional August heatwave.
