UK Braces for Scorching Summer Kickoff Today!

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The sun rises over the London skyline, signaling a second heatwave for parts of the country, in London, UK, August 11, 2022. — Reuters

South-east England is expected to experience peak temperatures of 29 degrees Celsius on May 1 (Thursday), marking what could be the hottest start to May in UK history.

This temperature could surpass the previous record of 27.4°C set in Lossiemouth on May 1, 1990, as reported by BBC.

This time of year, temperatures are projected to be between 7°C to 11°C above average across the region.

While the heat will peak on Thursday, a gradual cooling is expected over the bank holiday weekend, with temperatures returning to normal by Monday.

Wednesday saw temperatures generally hovering in the low to mid-20s across the UK, leading to exceptionally warm weather.

South-east England recorded its warmest April in seven years, with Wisley in Surrey reaching 26.7°C (80.1°F).

Scotland also recorded its highest April temperature since 2019 at Aboyne, reaching 24.4°C (75.9°F).

Wednesday was the second-hottest April day ever recorded in Wales, after a national record of 26.2°C was set in Gogerddan (Ceredigion) in 2003.

Castlederg in Northern Ireland also claimed its second-hottest April day, hitting 24.1°C, surpassing the previous record of 24.5°C set in 1984.

Although Scotland’s far north remained moderately cool, UV levels across most of the UK were notably high.

The forecast for Thursday predicts significantly warmer weather in England and Wales, with highs in the mid to upper 20s, potentially reaching up to 29 degrees Celsius.

If this occurs, it would exceed the record for the warmest start to May by several degrees.

In contrast, Scotland and Northern Ireland will see cooler temperatures, falling between 13°C and 17°C, which is typical for early May, accompanied by some clouds and showers.

Parts of Wales, the Midlands, and eastern England may experience heavy, thundery showers on Thursday due to increased humidity.

A significant high-pressure system has settled over the UK for the past week, effectively blocking typical rain-bearing low-pressure fronts that would usually arrive from the mid-Atlantic.