26C ..TOASTIER THAN TURKEY
Get set for first heatwave of year
A FIVE-day heatwave across parts of the south is set to leave even Istanbul in the shade.
Millions yesterday took advantage of the balmy 20C temperatures by flocking to beaches and parks – and things will be hotting up more today.
A sizzling 26C will be on the cards for some sunseekers before the week is out, bringing 2022’s hottest day so far.
But although London is due for 23C today with better to come, it is set to top out at a sunny 20C in the North – still higher than average – with rain and showers expected through the week.
Temperatures in the Turkish city of Istanbul are forecast to stay below 20C until at least Thursday, reaching the low 20s by Saturday before dropping back again. Yesterday’s UK hotspots included
Lyme Regis in Dorset, which was thronged with crowds, and Bournemouth’s Branksome Beach, where early morning bathers took advantage of the warmth to enjoy a dip in the sea.
The upturn in the weather has also put supermarkets on standby for a burgers-and-beers stampede as families dust off their barbecues.
Research by Tesco showed the average adult will attend or host at least four garden grill-ups this summer.
The Met Office’s Annie Shuttleworth said: “It’s likely we’ll see warm and much warmer-than-average temperatures across the UK. UV levels will likely be high.” The heat will also bring a soaring pollen count to torment hay fever and other allergy sufferers.
Allergy UK said: “If people become symptomatic, they should start taking medication early, ready for when the levels really peak.”
The hottest day of 2022 so far was on April 15, when the mercury hit 23.4C in St James’s Park, London. Coral is offering odds of 4-5 for it being our hottest May on record.
They also have 1-2 for this summer to be our hottest ever, and evens on 2022 breaking the highest UK temperature of 38.7C. Coral’s John Hill said: “Over the next few days, it will feel like summer has come early.” Those heading abroad are being warned of new travel disruption due to cancelled flights and possible strike action at Heathrow.
British Airways staff who took a 10% pay cut during the pandemic are voting on industrial action to have full salaries reinstated.