Millions of Londoners are enjoying a scorching Bank Holiday weekend as temperatures soar, with the hottest day of the year so far recorded on Saturday. The mercury hit 30.5C in Frittenden, Kent, marking the first time the UK has surpassed 30C in 2026. However, the heat is set to intensify on Sunday, with highs of 32C predicted in London and the South East by the Met Office. Bank Holiday Monday and Tuesday could see even higher temperatures, potentially reaching 34C on both days.
Amber Heat Alerts and Record Potential
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued amber heat alerts across London, the South East, and East Midlands, which will remain in place until Wednesday. Records for the hottest May day in the UK and England, currently at 32.8C, could be broken. Residents and visitors are advised to wear sun cream and stay hydrated.
Met Office Forecast
Met Office meteorologist Jonathan Vautrey said there will be “plentiful amounts of sunshine for the vast majority” of people on Sunday, with most seeing “wall-to-wall sunshine.” He added: “That extra sunshine once again allowing those temperatures to climb even further and so now we’re expecting to see around 33C in the far south-east of London but quite broadly a potential for 30C into parts of northern England, areas of Wales and right throughout the Midlands as well.”
Deputy chief forecaster Steve Kocher noted: “Temperatures are forecast to peak on Monday when we could see 33C recorded in southern England and the Midlands. It is likely that the May and Spring UK temperature records will be broken over the Bank Holiday weekend. As well as it being hot, there will be lots of dry and sunny weather for much of the UK.”
Another Heatwave Next Week?
Following the current hot spell, another heatwave could arrive at the end of next week. In London and much of southern England, this means three consecutive days with highs of 28C or higher. The Met Office indicates this could occur between Thursday and Saturday (May 28-30).
London Temperature Forecast for Next Week
- Sunday, May 24: Sunshine and gentle winds, peak of 32C.
- Monday, May 25: Sunny and a gentle breeze, potential high of 34C.
- Tuesday, May 26: Sunshine and light winds, possible peak of 34C.
- Wednesday, May 27: Sunny and gentle winds, peak temperature of 24C.
- Thursday, May 28: Sunny and a gentle breeze, top temperature of 28C.
- Friday, May 29: A hot day of sunshine, mercury rising to 29C.
- Saturday, May 30: More sunshine and light winds, peak of 28C.
With the heatwave continuing, Londoners are advised to take precautions, stay cool, and enjoy the sunny weather responsibly.
