UK and France Set May Temperature Records During Early-Season European Heatwave

1-Minute Brief

Record-breaking heat across the UK and France has raised concerns about public safety and climate trends.

Key Facts

• Kew Gardens in south-west London recorded a provisional May temperature of 35.1C, breaking the UK's May record for the second consecutive day.
• Seven deaths in France have been linked directly or indirectly to the heat, including five drownings and two during sporting events.
• A 'tropical evening' was recorded in Kent, UK, where temperatures did not fall below 21.3C on Monday night.
• Tens of thousands of people visited Bournemouth beach during the bank holiday heatwave, leaving large amounts of rubbish behind.
• The UK's Met Office confirmed a previous May temperature record of 33.5C at Heathrow near London on Monday.

What Happened

An early-season heatwave brought unprecedented high temperatures to the UK and France, setting new national records for May and prompting public health warnings.

Why It Matters

The unusual timing and intensity of the heatwave have raised concerns among authorities about the risks to public health, infrastructure, and the potential impact of climate change on weather patterns.

What's Next

Authorities in affected countries are monitoring conditions and have issued warnings, with forecasts indicating that high temperatures may persist and could reach 40C in parts of Spain by the end of the week.