Heatwave likely to be confirmed as record-breaking temperatures forecast

Heatwave likely to be confirmed as record-breaking temperatures forecastImage source, Mike Kemp/In Pictures via Getty ImagesByMatt TaylorLead Weather PresenterPublished23 minutes agoCommentsA heatwave is expected to officially be declared for parts of the UK on Sunday as a spell of unusual May heat intensifies. A temperature of 30.5C was recorded at Frittenden in Kent on Saturday - the highest of the year so far. The soaring temperatures could also lead to new national May temperature records being set on bank holiday Monday.While the tourism and hospitality industry are welcoming the well-timed hot and sunny weather, the longevity of the heatwave is likely to have impacts on the health of some. Amber heat-health alerts remain in force for parts of the Midlands and eastern England until at least Wednesday.Image source, BBC WeatherWatcherrs/Ani CaulWhen does hot weather become a heatwave?This all depends on where you live and is based on the "normal" climate there.Met Office heatwave criteria sets the temperature for a heatwave at 25C in Scotland, Northern Ireland, much of Wales and northern England. For many other areas of England, as well as south-east Wales, it is 26 or 27C. In London, most of the home counties and Cambridgeshire, it is 28C.These thresholds must be reached or exceeded on at least three consecutive days.It is possible that many areas will officially be classed as being in a heatwave when Sunday's temperatures are confirmed. For some areas it is likely to turn into a prolonged heatwave. Image caption, Heatwave temperature thresholds must be reached for three consecutive days or moreSix ways to keep your home and yourself cool in hot weatherAttributionNewsPublished3 days agoWhat's the difference between heat health alerts and extreme heat warnings?Published27 June 2025Temperature records may fallSaturday brought the UK its first 30C day of the year, and the earliest date 30C was reached since 1952.With heat set to build further ac...