Heatwave Hits UK and France, Breaking Records and Prompting Health Alert
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Monday was the hottest May day on record in the UK, with temperatures reaching 34.8 C (95 F) in London. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued an amber health alert for much of the country through Wednesday morning. In France, high temperatures have also broken records and are linked to several deaths.
Facts First
- Monday was the hottest May day on record in the UK, with temperatures reaching 34.8 C at Kew Gardens in London.
- An amber health alert is in effect for much of the UK through Wednesday morning.
- Temperatures in southern England could reach 35 C (95 F) on Tuesday, according to the Met Office.
- France has also seen record May temperatures, with many parts exceeding 30 C (86 F).
- At least seven deaths in France are potentially related to high temperatures, including five drownings.
What Happened
Monday was the hottest May day on record in the UK, with the temperature reaching 34.8 C (95 F) at Kew Gardens in London. This surpassed the previous record of 32.8 C set in 1922 and 1944. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued an amber health alert for much of the country through Wednesday morning. The Met Office weather service stated that temperatures in southern England could reach 35 C (95 F) on Tuesday. In France, temperatures broke records for the month of May, with many parts exceeding 30 C (86 F). Government spokeswoman Maud Bregeon reported at least seven deaths potentially related to high temperatures in France.
Why this Matters to You
The amber health alert means you may need to take extra precautions against heat-related illness, especially if you are vulnerable. Many homes, schools, and businesses in the UK do not have air conditioning, which could make staying comfortable more difficult. The heatwave could also disrupt your travel plans, as trains traveling to and from Waterloo station in London experienced disruptions due to a report of smoke on the tracks. If you are planning outdoor activities, especially near water, you should be aware of the heightened risk, as several drowning deaths have occurred in France and a boy died in a reservoir in northern England.
What's Next
The amber health alert in the UK is scheduled to remain in effect through Wednesday morning. Temperatures in southern England could reach 35 C (95 F) on Tuesday, which may lead to further health advisories. Fire services may continue to be busy, as a grass fire occurred at Arthur's Seat in Edinburgh that required firefighters to work through the night. Public advisories on water safety and heat precautions are likely to continue.