New Record for Hottest May Day in Wales
A new record for the hottest May day in Wales has been established. Bute Park in Cardiff recorded a temperature of 32.9C, according to the Met Office. This surpassed Monday's previous record of 32.2C at Hawarden Airport in Flintshire.
The earlier record was 30.6C, set in Newport on 29 May 1944. The highest temperature ever recorded in Wales is 37.1C, measured at Hawarden Bridge, Flintshire, on 18 July 2022.
Heatwave Conditions Across England and Wales
Much of England and Wales is currently experiencing an official heatwave. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued amber and yellow heat-health alerts for many regions. Temperatures have continued to rise in both Wales and England, with both countries recording their hottest May days on record earlier in the week.
In its latest update, the Met Office confirmed that the UK May and spring temperature records were provisionally broken for the second consecutive day. In Wales, the May temperature record was again surpassed with 32.9C recorded at Bute Park in Cardiff. Meanwhile, England recorded 35.1C at Kew Gardens.
The bank holiday weekend saw beaches across the country crowded with visitors taking advantage of the sunny weather.
Health Advice Amid Rising Temperatures
Dr Anya Gopfert, Consultant in Health Protection at UKHSA, emphasized the health risks associated with heat.
"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.
If you have friends, family or neighbours who are more vulnerable, it is important to check in on them and ensure they are aware of the forecasts and are following the necessary advice."
Safety Warnings from Welsh Water
Welsh Water has issued warnings urging people to avoid reservoirs during the warm weather. The company stated that reservoirs can be extremely dangerous despite appearing calm and safe. They may contain hidden hazards such as very cold water, deep and steep-sided banks, strong currents, underwater machinery, and sudden drops.
Welsh Water highlighted that unauthorized swimming, paddling, and the use of inflatables in reservoirs, often located in remote areas, can endanger lives both for those entering the water and for anyone attempting rescues.
This advice follows the tragic deaths of three teenagers in separate incidents at beauty spots across England on Bank Holiday Monday.
