As the weather in the UK shifts gears, residents can expect a significant rise in temperatures this May, with forecasts indicating a potential high of 27°C in London by May 19. This increase comes as a plume of warm air moves in from the continent, promising a sunny respite after a series of cloudy days.
According to WX Charts, the mercury is set to soar as early as May 17-18, with Greater London projected to reach 27°C by 6 PM on May 19, 2025. This temperature is notably higher than the average May temperature of 19°C for the city. However, it is important to note that despite this increase, the Met Office has stated that it will not qualify as an official heatwave since their criteria require a prolonged period of excessive heat.
The warm weather isn’t just confined to the capital; other parts of England are also set to enjoy similar conditions. Oxford is expected to see highs of 26°C, while Coventry is gearing up for 25°C. Nottingham and Greater Manchester are also in line for 26°C, according to WX Charts. Coastal areas, however, will experience slightly cooler temperatures, with Lowestoft forecasted at 22°C, Bridport at 21°C, and Weston-super-Mare ranging between 18-19°C.
The anticipated warm spell will provide little relief during the night, with temperatures expected to remain in the low 20s into the early hours of Tuesday, May 20. Following this peak, temperatures are predicted to stabilize in the low 20s before dipping into the more moderate mid-teens later in the week, as reported by the Express.
The Met Office has also released an extended forecast indicating that from May 19 to June 2, 2025, the weather will likely be characterized by “fairly typical” conditions for this time of year. They have not ruled out the possibility of thunderstorms during this period, suggesting that while fine and dry weather is more likely, it will be interspersed with occasional rain and showers.
In addition to the rising temperatures, BBC Weather has forecasted another stretch of sunny weather for London over the coming weekend. Starting with a mix of clouds and sunny intervals on May 7 and 8, the weather is expected to clear up significantly by May 9, with uninterrupted sunshine predicted from 2 PM onwards and highs reaching 19°C in the late afternoon.
The sunny conditions are set to continue through the weekend, with Saturday, May 10, showing a pleasant forecast of 21°C and clear skies. Sunday, May 11, is looking even warmer, with temperatures expected to rise to 23°C. The following day, Monday, May 12, will mirror this trend, although there may be a brief hour of cloud cover around 1 PM. On Tuesday, May 13, a similar pattern is expected, albeit with slightly lower temperatures of 21°C and an additional hour of clouds from midday.
However, the bright weather may not last, as cloudy days are expected to return by Wednesday, May 14, with sunny intervals and highs of 21°C. Thursday, May 15, will bring more clouds and light breezes, but temperatures are expected to remain consistent at 21°C.
As for the immediate weather conditions today, May 6, 2025, the day began with a cold and bright start, featuring early sunny spells that will gradually give way to increasing clouds due to onshore winds from the North Sea. Despite the cloud cover, the day is expected to remain mainly dry, with a maximum temperature of 17°C. Tonight, temperatures will drop to around 1°C, with a mostly clear evening expected.
Looking ahead, the Met Office meteorologist Greg Dewhurst has stated, “The main message for the week ahead is high pressure is going to dominate the weather pattern across the UK, so it’s going to be largely dry with sunny spells across many parts.” This indicates a favorable outlook for outdoor activities, especially as thousands are expected to visit London for the start of commemorations marking the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War in Europe, including a military procession and flypast.
While the warm weather is certainly a welcome change, it’s essential for residents to stay informed about potential weather fluctuations. Netweather has cautioned that predictions for the weather patterns from May 19-27 carry a “low” level of confidence due to a lack of standout signals. Nevertheless, they observe that overall temperatures will likely remain above normal, albeit modestly.
As Londoners prepare for the upcoming sunny spells, it’s a reminder of the unpredictability of British weather. With the promise of warmth and sunshine, many will be looking to take advantage of the pleasant conditions, whether it be through outdoor gatherings or simple enjoyment of the sun. However, as always, it’s wise to keep an umbrella handy just in case the clouds decide to make an appearance.
