London is facing its first significant spell of hot weather this year, with temperatures forecast to reach 31C early next week as the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) issues a yellow heat-health alert for the capital.
The alert, updated on Wednesday morning, comes into force from 9am on Friday 22 May and remains in place until 5pm on Wednesday 27 May. UKHSA said there is a “medium likelihood” of low-level impacts across health and social care services during the warm conditions.
The agency warned that vulnerable people could face an increased risk to life, while health services may see higher demand. There is also an increased potential for indoor environments to become very warm during the prolonged spell of heat.
Forecasters say temperatures in London will rise steadily through the weekend before peaking at around 31C on Sunday and Monday. Conditions are expected to remain largely dry and sunny, although there is a chance of heavy thundery showers on Saturday.
The warmest day recorded in the UK so far this year was 26.6C at Kew Gardens in south-west London in April. The current May temperature record stands at 32.8C, recorded in Camden Square, London, in 1922.
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Friday: Sunny and very warm — 27C / 18C
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Saturday: Very warm with sunny spells, risk of thundery showers — 29C / 17C
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Sunday: Hot and settled with sunshine — 31C / 19C
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Monday: Hot and sunny — 31C / 18C
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Tuesday: Very warm and dry — 30C / 17C
The Met Office said Thursday would become “warm or very warm” with sunny spells developing after early cloud clears. Looking ahead to the weekend, forecasters said temperatures could become “perhaps hot” with continued sunshine for many areas.
BBC London’s forecast also points to very warm and settled conditions from Friday through Sunday, with high pressure dominating and “plenty of sunshine” expected across the capital.
The warmer weather marks a sharp change from the cool and unsettled conditions experienced across much of the UK in recent days. Meteorologists say Friday could bring the warmest day of the year so far in parts of southeast England.
Staying cool in the hot weather
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Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you do not feel thirsty.
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Keep out of direct sun during the hottest part of the day, usually between 11am and 3pm.
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Wear loose, light-coloured clothing and a wide-brimmed hat outdoors.
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Use sunscreen with a high SPF to avoid sunburn.
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Keep homes cool by closing curtains or blinds during the day and opening windows at night when temperatures drop.
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Avoid strenuous exercise during peak heat. If exercising, do it early in the morning or later in the evening.
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Check on older relatives, neighbours and vulnerable people who may struggle in the heat.
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Never leave children or pets in parked cars, even for a short time.
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Eat light meals and avoid too much alcohol, which can increase dehydration.
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Watch for signs of heat exhaustion, including dizziness, headaches, heavy sweating and nausea.
The warmer conditions are also expected to provide a boost for tourism and hospitality businesses over the Bank Holiday period. Eddy Leviten, the Executive Director of Tourism Alliance said: “Tourism supports 2.4 million jobs across every region and nation of the UK, and a sunny Bank Holiday makes a real difference to the businesses that depend on visitor spend.
“A warmer, drier weekend should mean busier attractions, fuller hotels, more visitors at heritage sites and coastal resorts, and a welcome boost for towns and cities right across the country.”
