Eight areas of Wales formally declare a heatwave

Parts of Wales are officially in the midst of a scorching heatwave, according to the Met Office. The weather agency has confirmed that eight places in the nation have reached the heatwave threshold, with more areas expected to join the list in the coming days. It comes as Wales is experiencing record-breaking temperatures during the "exceptional" heatwave, which has seen temperatures soar above average for the time of year. It was the hottest May day ever for a second day running on Tuesday as temperatures climbed to a scorching 32.9C in Cardiff . The Met Office confirmed that Bute Park in the Welsh capital recorded the highest temperature anywhere in Wales on Tuesday, surpassing Monday’s newly set May record of 32.2C at Hawarden Airport in Flintshire . The previous Welsh May temperature record had stood for more than 80 years - 30.6C recorded in Newport on May 29, 1944. For the biggest stories in Wales first sign up to our daily newsletter here Now the weather agency has confirmed that weather stations in eight places have officially declared a heatwave as a result of the hot temperatures: Capel Curig Cardiff Gogerddan Porthmadog Scolton Country Park Swyddffynnon Trasgoed Whitechurch A Met Office spokesman added: "This list could well increase today with warm weather forecast to continue." A heatwave is officially defined as three consecutive days at or above a set temperature. For the majority of Wales, temperatures need to be above 25°C for three consecutive days for heatwave threshold to be reached. In parts of South-East Wales, this is slightly higher at 26°C. Crowds have flocked to beaches and parks across the country in recent days to enjoy the unprecedented heat, while others have sought refuge indoors or at splashpads in a bid to stay cool. According to forecasters at the Met Office, the peak of the heatwave has now passed but temperatures are still set to remain warm for the coming days which is likely to see more areas meet the heatwave threshold. Wednesday will be a fine and sunny day for most in Wales, with temperatures reaching a maximum of 29C. However as the day progresses, the Met Office warn there is a chance of an isolated thunderstorm or rain shower developing. It's set to remain warm for much of the weekend, before it starts to properly cool down on Sunday. By then, the warmest air is expected to have cleared away to the south with temperatures closer to, but mostly above, average for the time of year for the whole of the UK. Get daily breaking news updates on your phone by joining our WhatsApp community here . We occasionally treat members to special offers, promotions and ads from us and our partners. See our Privacy Notice