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UK Heatwave Ends: Rain and Cooler Temps Arrive
31 May
Summary
- Record 35.1C high Tuesday ends unseasonably hot May weather.
- Atlantic air brings cooler temps, with highs of 15-20C by Wednesday.
- At least 14 water-related deaths occurred during the hot spell.
Unseasonably hot weather across the UK, including a new May record of 35.1C in London on Tuesday, has concluded. Cooler Atlantic air arrived on Sunday, bringing temperatures down to 24C, with further decreases expected as meteorological summer begins.
Low pressure systems will now dominate, steering unsettled weather across the UK with forecasts of rain, potentially heavy in western areas on Monday. Tuesday may see sunshine mixed with heavy, thundery showers.
By Wednesday, with stronger winds, maximum temperatures are predicted to be between 15-20C. This transition to cooler, wetter weather is anticipated to benefit many gardeners, particularly in drier southern and eastern England.
The recent heatwave saw consecutive record-breaking May days for England and Wales. Heat health alerts were issued for much of England. Tragically, at least 14 people lost their lives after encountering difficulties in open water during the hot period.
