Hottest Ever Start to May as Temperatures Hit 29°C in London

London, UK – The mercury soared to a sweltering 29°C on the first day of May, making it the hottest start to May ever recorded in the UK. According to the Met Office, this record-breaking heat has officially set a new high for early May, sparking excitement for summer lovers and raising concerns among experts.

The mercury hit 29C in London, which the Met Office said was the hottest start to any May on record.Hottest ever start to May as temperatures hit 29C

A Summer-Like Start to Spring

Typically, the first few days of May bring mild and pleasant spring weather. However, Wednesday’s unexpected heatwave surprised many Londoners as temperatures climbed far above the average for this time of year, which usually hovers around 16°C to 18°C.

People across the city took full advantage of the sunshine. Parks were packed with families, joggers, and sunbathers. Popular spots like Hyde Park, Hampstead Heath, and the South Bank were bustling with people enjoying ice creams, picnics, and outdoor fun.

“It feels more like July than May,” said Emma Hughes, a London resident who spent the afternoon by the River Thames. “We didn’t expect to get this kind of weather so soon!”

Met Office Confirms All-Time High for May 1st

The Met Office, the UK’s national weather service, confirmed that May 1st, 2025, is now the hottest ever recorded start to the month. The previous record for early May was 28.6°C, set back in 1995. Wednesday’s temperature of 29°C has now broken that long-standing record.

Meteorologists explained that a warm air mass from southern Europe moved northwards, bringing unusually hot weather to parts of England and Wales. While London saw the highest temperatures, areas like Cambridge, Oxford, and Kent also experienced highs between 26°C and 28°C.

Climate Experts Sound the Alarm

While many enjoyed the sunshine, climate scientists and environmental experts expressed concern about the long-term trend behind this unusual heat. Rising temperatures and extreme weather patterns are often linked to climate change, and early heatwaves are a sign that things may be shifting faster than expected.

“This kind of weather in early May used to be extremely rare,” said Dr. James Allen, a climate researcher at the University of Reading. “Now, we’re seeing more frequent and intense hot spells much earlier in the year. It’s a sign that the climate is changing.”

The Met Office also noted that the UK has experienced warmer springs over the past decade. This record-breaking day adds to growing evidence that Britain’s weather patterns are becoming more unpredictable and extreme.

Health Officials Urge Caution

With the sudden heat, public health officials issued reminders to stay safe in high temperatures. The NHS advised people to drink plenty of water, wear sunscreen, avoid being outdoors during peak sun hours, and check on elderly or vulnerable neighbours.

Schools were also encouraged to let students stay cool by allowing lighter clothing and increasing water breaks. Some schools even held outdoor classes to make the most of the sunshine.

“We welcome the good weather, but it’s important not to underestimate how heat can affect our bodies, especially those with health conditions,” said Dr. Fiona Moore of Public Health England.

How Long Will the Heat Last?

According to Met Office forecasts, the hot weather is expected to continue for a few more days, though temperatures will gradually drop back to normal spring levels by the weekend. Showers are likely in some regions of the UK, especially in the north and west.

Despite the brief nature of this early heatwave, weather experts say it could be a sign of what’s to come this summer. The UK may be in for a warmer and drier summer than usual, though it’s still too early to say for certain.

What This Means for the UK

This record-setting heat serves as a wake-up call. While it’s great to enjoy a sunny day, experts warn that we must also think about the bigger picture. Early heatwaves, warmer springs, and higher average temperatures are part of a broader global pattern linked to climate change.

As the UK faces more frequent extreme weather events, from floods to heatwaves, scientists urge the government and public to take climate action seriously. Reducing carbon emissions, promoting green energy, and adapting city infrastructure are key steps to preparing for a warmer future.

Final Thoughts

The hottest ever start to May in London has certainly made headlines. With temperatures hitting 29°C, the city felt more like midsummer than early spring. While many enjoyed the sunshine, the record-breaking heat also reminded us of the urgent need to address climate change.

As we move further into the year, all eyes will be on what kind of summer the UK will experience — and whether this early heatwave is a taste of what’s to come.

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