The UK is set for a potential warm spell towards the end of May, with temperatures forecast to rise as high as 27°C, according to the latest ECMWF weather model.
Starting on the evening of 22 May, maximum temperatures could reach 26°C, particularly just south of London. Surrounding regions, including parts of Wales, central England, and the east, may see temperatures ranging between 23°C and 24°C.
By 23 May, the south-east is expected to experience peak temperatures around 27°C, while the Midlands could see highs of 26°C. Most areas of England south of Yorkshire may enjoy temperatures near 24°C, with South Wales potentially hitting 25°C.
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The warmth is expected to continue on 24 May with the south coast of England forecasted to reach 26°C. Similar temperatures are predicted for the West Midlands and areas near London. Southern Scotland could also see a mild evening temperature of around 22°C.
The four-day warm period may conclude on 25 May, with temperatures remaining close to 25°C across southern and western parts of the UK. In total, 18 counties could experience peak temperatures of 25°C or above during this stretch.
The Met Office forecasts a trend toward “rather warm” conditions late in May, particularly in southern parts of the country. Their outlook for 17 to 26 May notes that while early temperatures might be cooler than average, a high-pressure system will likely bring more settled and warmer weather as the period progresses.
An official UK heatwave, declared when temperatures surpass the regional heatwave threshold for three consecutive days, could be a possibility but is not yet confirmed. These thresholds vary from 25°C in northern areas to 28°C in the warmer south-east.