Forget spring jackets—Brits are reaching for sunscreen and shorts as May kicks off with record-breaking heat.
It’s not just warm, it’s hot, with parts of the country seeing temperatures more common in midsummer than early May.
According to the Met Office, today marks the hottest May Day on record, as Kew Gardens in London hit a sizzling 28°C (82.4°F)—and there’s potential for temperatures to climb even higher.
May Day Traditions Meet Summer Vibes
As the sun rose on this unusually warm May 1st, students at the University of St Andrews kept their annual tradition alive by sprinting into the chilly North Sea for the May Day Dip—a rite of passage said to bring good luck for exams.
Elsewhere, morris dancers brought a splash of color to towns across the UK, celebrating the arrival of May in true British fashion.
UK Shatters Records—And Expectations
Today’s heat has officially broken the previous May 1st record of 27.4°C, which was set back in 1990.
It’s also the fourth day in a row that the UK has recorded its warmest day of the year so far.
Before today, highs included 26.7°C in Surrey, 24.9°C in Herefordshire, and 24.5°C in London.
Meteorologist Michael Silverstone from the Met Office said we may even see 30°C (86°F)—which would make it the earliest 30-degree day in UK history since records began in 1860.
Not All Sunshine: Tragedy and Cautions
Unfortunately, the heat has come with a tragic reminder of the dangers of open water.
In Nottingham, authorities discovered a body during the search for a 16-year-old boy who went missing while swimming at Colwick Country Park.
This prompted warnings from the London Fire Brigade, urging people to be cautious near rivers, lakes, and other bodies of water.
“Even on hot days, water can be dangerously cold,” said Assistant Commissioner Craig Carter.
Cold water shock can affect anyone—even experienced swimmers.
Cooler Weather Ahead—but Not for Long
If you’re not a fan of the heat, you’ll be happy to hear that the temperature is set to drop over the weekend.
Friday will still be warm at around 26°C, but by Sunday it’ll feel more like spring again with highs around 16°C.
The Bank Holiday Monday will be even cooler, with top temperatures struggling to get above 14°C.
Good news for hay fever sufferers—pollen levels are expected to drop along with the temperatures.
Today’s “very high” alert across southern England, the Midlands, and Wales will ease over the weekend.
No Official Heatwave (Yet)
While it’s undeniably hot, this doesn’t qualify as a heatwave—at least not yet.
The UK defines a heatwave as three consecutive days above threshold temperatures, which vary by region (25°C for most of the UK and 28°C for London).
It’s close, but not quite there.
Farmers and Drivers Feeling the Heat
The hot weather has been a mixed blessing for farmers.
Andy Barr, a Kent-based grower, said the conditions are “stressful for crops” like barley and wheat.
Farmers have had to adjust their work hours to early mornings and late evenings to avoid the searing midday sun.
On the roads, breakdowns are expected to spike, according to the RAC.
Spokesperson Rod Dennis advised drivers to stock up on water, sunscreen, and hats—and to be mindful of warning lights, especially those indicating low coolant levels.
Trains Slowed by Heat, Road Chaos Expected
It’s not just the roads—train services have also been affected. Speed restrictions due to “hot track temperatures” have delayed routes in London, Berkshire, and Yorkshire. As the May Day bank holiday approaches, 17 million Brits are expected to hit the roads between Friday and Monday.
Traffic experts predict the worst congestion late Friday afternoon and evening. For smoother journeys, drivers are encouraged to travel before 10am or after 3pm during the holiday weekend.
Sun = Sales: Retailers Riding the Heat Wave
Retailers are cashing in on the sunshine.
Lakeland has reported skyrocketing sales: ice cream makers are up 248%, barbecues a whopping 1,535%, and pizza ovens 105%.
Outdoor gear like pegs and airers are also flying off the shelves.
Toolstation has seen a similar trend with a 136% jump in lawnmower sales and significant increases in hedge trimmers and watering cans.
Meanwhile, some 22 million workers have strategically booked time off—while 41% admitted to calling in sick to soak up the sun.
What’s Next?
While the UK cools down slightly over the weekend, the big question is whether we’ll see more temperature records tumble later in May.
For now, enjoy the sun safely—and keep an eye on the forecast, especially if you’re hitting the road or planning an outdoor getaway.