Britain is expected to record its hottest May day on record, with temperatures forecast to reach 35 degrees Celsius as an intense and unusual heatwave sweeps across the country.

According to the UK Met Office, Monday’s temperatures are set to surpass the existing May record of 32.8 °C, which was first recorded in 1922 and matched again in 1944.

The weather agency described the heatwave as unprecedented for the time of year, noting that temperature records are usually exceeded by only a fraction of a degree.

The Met Office also forecast that the day could become the hottest bank holiday ever recorded in the United Kingdom, with heatwave conditions extending across southeast England and London.

Meteorologist Tom Morgan said temperatures approaching 35C are extremely rare even during the height of summer, making the current conditions historically significant.

Residents across the country expressed both amazement and concern over the unusually high temperatures.

Some described the weather as enjoyable but abnormal, while others pointed to it as further evidence of the growing impact of climate change.

Climate scientists have repeatedly warned that human-induced global warming is increasing the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, including heatwaves, droughts, and flooding.

The United Kingdom recorded its hottest year on record in 2025, and climate advisers recently cautioned that much of the country's infrastructure was designed for weather patterns that no longer reflect current realities.

Experts have urged authorities to strengthen climate adaptation measures, including upgrading schools, hospitals, and other public facilities to cope with rising temperatures and future extreme weather conditions.