Met Office issue warning as ‘historic’ heatwave hits UK

Monday is forecast to be the hottest bank holiday on record with “historic” temperatures of 34°C predicted in Oxfordshire and south-east England.

It comes after the UK saw its hottest May day for at least 79 years on Sunday with a high of 32.3°C at Kew Gardens in south-west London.

Tom Morgan, a Met Office meteorologist, told the Press Association: “We rarely see temperatures above 35°C, even in the summer months, so to see temperatures getting close to 35°C in May is, as I say, pretty historic.”

READ MORE: UK transport firm in liquidation after 18 years amid High Court order

A “historic” heatwave is hitting the UK. (Image: Jonathan Brady / PA Wire)

The Met Office said heatwave conditions were met in eight parts of England on Sunday, including Benson in Oxfordshire.

Although Monday is set to be hot for many parts of England, north-west Scotland will be breezier and damper with thicker clouds.

Saturday was the first time this year that the UK had passed 30°C and Sunday saw the hottest recorded May temperature since 1947.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) issued its first amber health alert of 2026 on Friday, warning that there is a risk of a significant impact across health and social care services. The alert will remain in place until Wednesday.

The heat is considered to be dangerous for some vulnerable groups, including older adults, as their bodies struggle to regulate temperature.

READ MORE: Cotswolds town offers free parking for 10 hours this bank holiday weekend

Age UK recommends staying inside during the hottest hours of the day, between 11am and 3pm, and having regular cold baths or showers.

Age UK charity director Caroline Abrahams said: “We can all help older people stay safe during periods of hot weather by checking in on older relatives, friends and neighbours to see if they need anything or are struggling with the heat.

“Offering to pick up shopping or medication, or even lending a fan, can make a real difference.”

The Met Office is also encouraging people to be WeatherReady this Bank Holiday weekend as temperatures are set to rise, with many expected to head outdoors and to the coast.

Ashley Jones, Head of Water Safety & Education at Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK), said: “As air temperatures rise, it’s important people don’t underestimate the risks associated with entering open water.

READ MORE: Opening date of new Westgate Oxford store revealed by hoardings

” Even during a heatwave, water will remain dangerously cold, and cold water shock is a very real danger.

“Sudden immersion can cause an involuntary gasp, rapid breathing and panic, which can quickly lead to a loss of control in the water – even for strong swimmers.

“We’re urging the public to choose lifeguarded locations wherever possible, where safety measures and supervision are in place.

“If you are spending time near water with children, always supervise them closely, keep them within arm’s reach, and consider dressing them in brightly coloured swimwear to improve visibility.

“Open water environments are very different from controlled swimming areas. There may be hidden hazards beneath the surface, strong currents, and colder temperatures that can seriously affect your ability to swim.

READ MORE: Fans rally behind Jeremy Clarkson ahead of King Charles decision

“It’s vital to respect your limits, avoid swimming alone, and talk to your family about water safety before you visit.

“If you see someone in trouble, don’t be tempted to enter the water to rescue them.

“Instead, call 999, encourage them to float on their back, and throw something that floats to assist them.

“Taking simple precautions can help prevent tragedies and ensure everyone stays safe while enjoying the water during warmer weather.”