According to the forecaster’s five-day forecast, temperatures will hit 30C in the UK on Monday with “widespread strong sunshine” expected. Meanwhile, the UKHSA has also issued an amber heat health alert for the West Midlands, East Midlands, East of England, South East, and London which is in place until 5pm on Wednesday (May 27). A separate yellow heat health alert is in place for the North East, North West, South West, and Yorkshire. With that in mind, health officials are urging people out enjoying the sunshine to opt for water rather than sugary soft drinks that can dehydrate the body.
As reported by the Manchester Evening News, the UKHSA says: “Water and diluted squash or lower fat milks are good choices. Fruit juice, smoothies and soft drinks can be high in sugar which dehydrates the body.
“Limit the amount of fruit juice or smoothies that you drink, and swap sugary soft drinks for diet, sugar-free or no added sugar varieties.
“If you are going out, take a refillable bottle filled with water. Take extra water for journeys on public transport or by car.
“Alcohol has a dehydrating effect on the body, so it is a good idea to choose alcohol-free options, or alternate alcoholic drinks with a glass of water.”
It comes after the Met Office recorded temperatures of 30.5C in Kent on Saturday (May 23), marking the hottest day of the year so far and beating the warmest May temperature recorded in the UK since 2012. The forecaster is expecting further warm weather on Monday.
It states: “Hot and humid on bank holiday Monday, exceptionally so for late May, with widespread strong sunshine and light winds. Slightly fresher at the coast with a sea breeze. Maximum temperature 30C.”
The forecast for Tuesday to Thursday (May 28) adds: “Staying sunny and mostly dry over the next few days. Gradually turning less hot from Wednesday, though still warm. A little more patchy cloud developing, perhaps with the odd shower.”