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The UK could experience record-breaking heat this week, with temperatures potentially reaching 30°C, according to the Met Office.
Southern and central parts of England are expected to see highs of 26°C on Tuesday, April 29, rising to 27°C in London on Wednesday. By Thursday, May 1, temperatures could soar to 30°C in some areas—making it the earliest time in the year the UK has ever reached that level.
Met Office chief meteorologist Paul Gundersen explained that while mid-20°C temperatures are not unusual for April—having occurred in 2018 and 2019—temperatures in the high-20s or reaching 30°C are far more rare. If hit, this would break the April heat record of 29.4°C set in 1949 in Camden Square, London.
The highest temperature ever recorded in May was 32.8°C on May 22, 1922, also in Camden Square.
Nicola Maxey of the Met Office noted that a high-pressure system is causing temperatures to rise steadily, with Thursday marking the likely peak. A drop in temperatures is expected from Friday as the system moves away.
There’s a chance the UK could meet official heatwave criteria if temperatures hit 25°C or more for three consecutive days. The threshold for a heatwave is 25°C in most regions, and up to 28°C in London.
Mike Childs of Friends of the Earth cautioned that climate change is making heatwaves more frequent and intense. He emphasized the need for stronger climate action, pointing to the upcoming climate plan due in October as a key opportunity to reduce emissions, improve housing efficiency, and lead global efforts to address climate challenges.
