Advanced weather modeling indicates that temperatures in the UK could soar to 30C by the end of this month. Temperature anomaly maps reveal areas of intense heat, particularly in England and Wales, surpassing the usual temperatures for this time of year.
According to the GFS weather model, temperatures could climb above 25C for five consecutive days starting on May 24, with peaks of 27C expected in the south-east of England. The data suggests that Yorkshire could reach 25C on the same day, while parts of Wales and Scotland may see highs of 23C.
The forecast shows a continuation of high temperatures, with London expected to experience 27C on May 25, and East Anglia possibly reaching 25C around 6pm. The following days may see a slight cooling trend, with highs of 25C and 26C in the south-east, and 20-22C in the rest of England and Wales. However, May 28 is anticipated to be exceptionally hot.
On May 28, maximum temperature projections indicate highs of 30C near London, with temperatures in the south-east possibly reaching 28C and 29C, and 27C as far north as Yorkshire. Scotland is likely to see temperatures in the low-20s, while Wales may experience highs of 25C. Northern Ireland is not expected to exceed 20C.
The GFS model suggests that around 20 counties in England could witness temperatures of 27C or higher over the five-day period. The official declaration of a heatwave by the Met Office requires temperatures to meet or exceed specific thresholds for three consecutive days, varying from 25C to 28C across different regions of the UK.
While temperatures are expected to rise towards the end of the month, the Met Office has not confirmed the likelihood of a heatwave. The forecast for May 18 to 27 indicates a gradual increase in temperatures, especially in the south of the UK.
