The United Kingdom is bracing for a prolonged heatwave that could shatter a temperature record dating back to 1922. Forecasters now anticipate highs of 33 degrees Celsius, making it the hottest May day on record.
London to Swelter in Stifling Heat
London could experience stifling 33C temperatures in the coming days, according to weather experts. The Met Office has predicted an official heatwave, defined as four consecutive days with temperatures at 28C or higher. The heatwave is expected to begin on Saturday, May 23, and peak on Sunday, May 24, with a 40% chance of reaching 33C in parts of southern England.
Forecaster Tom Morgan explained that if temperatures climb to 33C, it would surpass the current May record of 32.8C, recorded in Camden Square, London, on May 22, 1922. "This is a prolonged period of high temperatures," Morgan said.
Detailed Forecast
The Met Office forecast for Thursday, May 21, indicates cloudy and breezy conditions across northern and northwestern areas with outbreaks of rain. Elsewhere, after a grey and misty start with patchy rain in the west, very warm sunshine is expected to develop. Breezy conditions will bring rain spreading northeastwards across Northern Ireland and Scotland in the evening, followed by clearer spells overnight. Most of England and Wales will be clear, though patchy fog and drizzle may occur in the west.
On Friday, May 22, patchy rain and fog in the northwest and some western areas at first will give way to dry conditions with very warm or hot sunshine. It will remain breezy in the northwest.
Bank Holiday Weekend Outlook
For Saturday, May 23, to Monday, May 25, some showers on Friday night will clear southeastwards early Saturday. Patchy rain at times in the far northwest and coastal mist patches are expected. Otherwise, dry conditions with hot sunshine by day and mostly clear overnight are forecast.
Travel Advice
RAC breakdown spokesperson Harriet Hernando warned motorists to prepare for increased traffic and potential breakdowns as the weather transitions from cold to hot. "With the weather set to transition from cold to hot as the bank holiday approaches, we're going to see a lot more traffic on the roads - and with that comes the risk of many more vehicles breaking down in the heat," Hernando said. "Before setting out on a long journey, motorists should make sure that their car is summer-ready. One of the biggest risks is an increase in cars overheating, especially when sat in queues of traffic with no shade."
Residents are advised to stay hydrated, seek shade during peak heat hours, and check on vulnerable neighbors as the heatwave takes hold.
