Residents in Crawley are preparing for an exceptionally warm Bank Holiday weekend as the Met Office forecasts temperatures climbing steadily from 25°C today to a peak of 31°C by Monday, May 25. This warm spell is set to be the hottest of the year so far, with clear, sunny skies expected throughout the period.
Due to the rising heat, the UK Health Security Agency has issued an amber heat-health alert for the South East region, which remains in effect from 2pm on Friday, May 22, until 5pm on Wednesday, May 27. Officials are advising residents to take precautions, particularly by seeking shade during the middle of the day when UV levels are at their highest and ensuring they wear sunscreen.
Those who suffer from hay fever should also prepare for the coming days, as pollen levels are expected to be high through Monday, rising to very high on Tuesday, May 26. While many residents may look to enjoy local green spaces such as Tilgate Park or Goffs Park, the Met Office suggests staying mindful of the sun during peak hours.
This period of warm weather is driven by high pressure over the United Kingdom, which causes air to warm as it descends. Nationally, temperatures across southern England could reach 33°C on Monday, a level that would surpass the existing May temperature record of 32.8°C that has stood since 1922 and 1944. Research from the Met Office indicates that reaching these high temperatures in May is now approximately three times more likely due to current climate conditions.
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