UK Basks in Warmest Day of 2025 — With Potential Record Heat on May 1st

The UK recorded its warmest day of the year on Tuesday, with temperatures peaking at 24.9°C (76.8°F) in Ross-on-Wye and Trawscoed, beating Monday’s 24.5°C high in London. And the heatwave isn’t over — forecasters predict temperatures may soar to 29°C on Thursday, making it the hottest start to May on record.

What to Expect This Week:

Wednesday: Temperatures in the low to mid-20s, especially warm in the London area (27°C).

Thursday (May 1st): Possible peak of 29°C in southern England, beating the 1990 record of 27.4°C.

Scotland & Northern Ireland: Cooler at 13–16°C.

Weekend: Gradual cooling, but still sunny and dry for most.

Monday (Bank Holiday): Temperatures drop to 12–17°C, closer to early May averages.

This warm spell is driven by southerly winds from southern Europe, combined with strong high-pressure systems and intense spring sunshine. However, the humidity on Thursday could trigger heavy or thundery showers in parts of England and Wales.

Health & Safety Alerts:

UV levels are high, increasing the risk of sunburn and skin damage, even when it’s cloudy.

Pollen levels are also elevated, affecting allergy sufferers.

The NHS advises wearing SPF 30+ sunscreen, seeking shade, and staying hydrated.

The UK Health Security Agency recommends avoiding strenuous activity during peak heat hours.

Although not officially classified as a heatwave (which requires three consecutive days above a regional threshold), this event highlights a rapid warming trend in the UK — with spring now the fastest-warming season due to climate change.