health
Hottest May day for nearly 80 years as parts of UK hit heatwave threshold
Highest temperatures of 2026 in England, Wales and Northern Ireland as Kew Gardens in London reaches 32.3C
TL;DR
- England, Wales, and Northern Ireland recorded their highest temperatures of 2026 on Sunday, marking the UK's hottest May day in at least 79 years.
- Kew Gardens in west London reached 32.3C, with other locations also experiencing significant heat.
- Several areas, including Santon Downham and parts of London, met the criteria for heatwave conditions.
- Temperatures are expected to rise further on Monday, potentially reaching 33C to 34C.
- The climate crisis is identified as a factor increasing the likelihood of extreme heat events.
- The UK Health Security Agency issued amber heat alerts, warning of increased health risks for vulnerable groups.
- Water safety warnings were issued due to incidents of drowning, with a tragic incident involving a teenager in Lincoln.
- South East Water faced issues with water supply in three villages in Kent.