UK Weather Update: Heatwave and Thunderstorm Alerts

The UK is preparing for a heatwave as warm air from France is set to increase temperatures across the country towards the end of May. Weather maps from Netweather.tv and WXCharts.com forecast a plume of hot air arriving in southern England by May 31, with temperatures potentially exceeding 20°C. This increase in warmth is expected to coincide with the half-term week for many schools.

The Met Office forecasts that temperatures will be “a little above average” during this period, with southern regions of the UK, including the south coast and southeast, benefiting from the warmth. Northern England, Wales, Northern Ireland, and even parts of Scotland are also expected to experience elevated temperatures.

However, before this heatwave, the UK must first weather some severe thunderstorms and downpours. The Met Office has issued yellow thunderstorm warnings for southwestern England and parts of Northern Ireland, effective until 9 PM on May 21. These areas can expect “intense” downpours and up to 2 inches of rain over a few hours, which may result in frequent lightning, hail, and potential flash flooding. The regions under alert include Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, Plymouth, Somerset, and Torbay.

Meteorologist Amy Bokota indicated that the slow-moving nature of the storms might exacerbate their impact, due to light winds currently prevailing. As a result, disruptions to transport, power cuts, and damage to buildings are possible.

As for the rest of the week, the Met Office anticipates that the weather will become more settled, although some rain may still affect northwestern and eastern regions towards the end of the month.

This comprehensive weather forecast outlines the UK’s transition from wet and stormy conditions to a period of unseasonably warm weather, providing residents ample time to prepare for both eventualities.