On April 29, 2025, the UK experienced its warmest day of the year, with temperatures soaring to a notable 24.9°C (76.8°F). This milestone signaled the onset of a potentially record-breaking warm spell, with forecasts suggesting the arrival of even higher temperatures later in the week. This shift in weather patterns, marking the onset of May, has stirred both excitement and concern among residents and meteorologists alike.
The new peak temperature surpassed the previous high recorded on Monday in London, at St James’s Park, which stood at 24.5°C. Notably, the warmest locations on this day were Ross-on-Wye in the West Midlands and Trawscoed in Wales. These regions consistently rank as hotspots during warm spells, benefiting from geographical conditions that amplify temperature gains. As the warmer weather continues, forecasters predict that the first day of May could see temperatures reaching up to 29°C—a record for this time of year.
Amid these warmer temperatures, the UK also faces elevated UV and pollen levels, further affecting public health. The upcoming bank holiday weekend is expected to bring a cooling trend, although the weather will generally remain dry and sunny throughout most areas of the country. Such a combination of warm weather interspersed with cooler spells is characteristic of the season, allowing citizens to enjoy outdoor activities while staying mindful of their health.
Temperatures in Scotland peaked at 22.4°C in Aboyne, while in Northern Ireland, the highest recorded temperature was 22.2°C at Derrylin. Forecasters anticipate similar temperatures across the UK in the following days, with expectations of the London area reaching 27°C on Wednesday. This rise in warmth marks a significant increase compared to recent Aprils, with the last time such high temperatures were recorded being in April 2018 in Cambridge.
Looking ahead, the forecast for Thursday suggests a slight cooling in Scotland and Northern Ireland, where temperatures are likely to drop to between 13°C to 16°C. However, the southern regions of England are set to see a build-up of heat, contributing to surface temperature records and culminating in what is projected to be the hottest start to May since record-keeping began, surpassing the previous mark of 27.4°C set in Lossiemouth in 1990.
These temperature trends stem from a climate system pulling warm air from southern Europe, driven by a persistent high-pressure system lingering over the UK. This pattern not only enhances the likelihood of sunny weather but also suggests an increase in humidity levels—resulting in possible heavy showers and thunderstorms towards the latter part of the week.
As temperatures start to drop during the long weekend, conditions will remain relatively dry with plenty of sunshine, a welcome development for those reveling in the warm weather. However, northern Scotland and the eastern parts of the UK may experience cloudier conditions, primarily on Sunday. By Monday, temperatures are likely to fall to a more typical range for early May, settling between 12°C and 17°C.
Despite the warm spell being notable, it does not reach the classification of a “heatwave,” which requires at least three consecutive days above temperature thresholds that vary across different UK regions. Such warm weather is characteristic of the spring season, and as climate change becomes more prevalent, early spring heat events are expected to occur with more regularity.
The current conditions also bring increased UV levels across the UK, emphasizing the importance of skin protection. While UV rays are essential for vitamin D synthesis, excessive exposure can lead to severe consequences, such as skin cancer and ocular damage. Citizens are encouraged to seek shade during peak sunlight hours, apply sunscreen diligently every two hours, and remain vigilant regarding hydration, especially as temperatures rise. In conclusion, this extraordinary warmth invites both outdoor enjoyment and responsibility, as the UK witnesses one of the earliest and hottest turns into May.