Wellingborough in Northamptonshire is forecast to reach 33°C on Tuesday 26 May 2026, feeling like 33°C because of humidity, according to the Met Office forecast. The town is covered by an AMBER heat-health alert for the East Midlands that runs to 5pm on Wednesday 27 May 2026, the UK Health Security Agency says.
The forecast shows a brief respite on Wednesday with a high of 26°C and a brisk easterly breeze, before temperatures rise to around 30°C on Thursday and then gradually cool through the weekend as cloud and light showers return by Sunday and Monday. UV levels are rated high throughout the working week, and the Met Office lists pollen levels as high on Tuesday.
The heat is part of a wider early-season spike across the UK, with the Met Office confirming a provisional daily temperature record for spring and May of 34.8°C at Kew Gardens on 25 May 2026. Met Office Chief Operational Meteorologist Dan Suri said, “Meteorologically, what we’ve seen is the influence of warmth building under an area of high pressure near the UK allowing exceptional heat to build allowing maximum and minimum temperatures to reach levels not previously reported at this time of year.” Met Office analysis also finds that breaking May temperature records is now around three times more likely than in a climate not impacted by greenhouse gas emissions.
Public health advice under the AMBER alert stresses the risks to older people and those with health conditions. The Met Office advises people to seek shade during midday hours, cover up and wear sunscreen, and Dr Anya Gopfert at UKHSA said, “We know that even moderate heat can lead to serious health problems, especially for older people and those with certain health conditions, so it’s important that everyone takes simple precautions while enjoying the warm weather over the coming days.” Local guidance from Healthwatch North Northamptonshire also warns overnight temperatures may remain relatively high, making it harder for homes and buildings to cool down.
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