Londoners are set for a sizzling stretch of sunshine as the latest weather forecasts predict temperatures will soar to 25C by mid-May, marking one of the hottest periods this spring. After a relatively mild start to the month, the capital is bracing for a wave of warmth, with the BBC forecasting 14 consecutive days of sunshine and NetWeather pinpointing Wednesday, May 21, as the peak, when temperatures are expected to hit a balmy 25C around 3pm.
This long-awaited return of summer-like conditions has been welcomed by many across the capital, with parks already bustling with families, sunbathers, and workers swapping offices for green spaces during lunch breaks. St James’s Park and Primrose Hill have seen a noticeable uptick in footfall, as Londoners seek to make the most of the sunshine after a damp and unpredictable April.
Warmest May on Record Fuels Drought Concerns
The sunny forecast comes after the UK recorded its warmest start to May since records began, with Kew Gardens registering a scorching 29.3C on May 1. While the warmth has brought joy to many, it also raises environmental concerns. The Environment Agency has issued a warning about potential summer droughts, citing the driest start to spring in nearly seven decades. Low reservoir levels, stressed crops, and a higher risk of wildfires have all been flagged as worrying indicators.
Farmers across the Southeast are already expressing concern. “We haven’t seen sustained rainfall since early March,” says Sarah Hunt, a fourth-generation farmer in Kent. “If this trend continues, we could be facing serious crop failures come June.”
BBC Forecast: Sun, Sun, and More Sun
According to the BBC’s extended forecast, the upcoming fortnight promises a rare stretch of consistency in London’s often unpredictable weather. From Tuesday, May 13, onwards, daily highs are expected to hover between 21C and 24C, with clear skies and gentle breezes dominating the outlook. While a brief spell of light rain is possible today (Monday, May 12), it is not expected to linger or dampen spirits for long.
The official forecast for London from Tuesday to Sunday is as follows:
- Tuesday, May 13 – High of 24C, sunny with a gentle breeze.
- Wednesday, May 14 – High of 23C, clear skies and mild winds.
- Thursday, May 15 – High of 21C, continuous sunshine.
- Friday, May 16 to Sunday, May 18 – Temperatures ranging from 22C to 23C, mostly sunny.
The warm streak is set to culminate on Wednesday, May 21, when NetWeather’s detailed mapping suggests the thermometer will tip to 25C at around 3pm. From there, mild and sunny weather is expected to continue into the final week of the month, though cloudier intervals may return around May 24.
What It Means for Londoners
With many Londoners still adjusting to the return to office routines, the sunny spell is a welcome morale booster. Outdoor venues and cafes are already seeing increased bookings, and events like rooftop screenings, street festivals, and outdoor yoga classes are gaining popularity.
“It’s fantastic timing,” says Maria Sanchez, a manager at a Covent Garden rooftop bar. “We’ve launched our summer cocktail menu just in time, and the bookings are pouring in for the weekend of May 17-18.”
Transport for London (TfL) has also issued a heat awareness advisory, encouraging passengers to carry water, especially during afternoon commutes, and to check for service updates during hotter days when disruptions are more likely.
Meanwhile, health experts are reminding residents to stay hydrated and wear sunscreen, particularly children and the elderly. UV levels are expected to rise alongside the temperatures, reaching moderate to high across most of London by next weekend.
Londoners React to the Forecast
Social media has lit up with Londoners sharing sun-soaked snaps and preparing for picnics and park runs. “It finally feels like summer is here,” tweeted @LdnWeatherWatch, while Instagram influencer @sunnydayssoph posted: “About time! London’s bringing the heat – Pimms and sunhats ready!”
But not all are thrilled. Some commuters have voiced concern over stifling Tube journeys, especially on lines that lack air conditioning. “It’s like stepping into a furnace during peak hours,” one user posted on Reddit’s r/London forum.
Looking Ahead
The capital’s return to warmer, drier weather spells good news for hospitality, leisure, and tourism sectors as they gear up for the early summer rush. While occasional fluctuations may occur, the general trend appears promising for those craving blue skies and barbecues.
With the sun poised to shine and temperatures set to rise steadily, it’s time for Londoners to dust off the sunglasses, dig out the sunscreen, and prepare for what could be the most memorable May in years.
