May 22, 2026 - 84 views
Temperatures could soar to near-record levels across parts of North Wales this Bank Holiday weekend as an “exceptional spell of warmth” grips the UK.
Forecasters say the coming days could bring some of the hottest May weather ever recorded, with the Met Office warning that an unprecedented early-season heatwave is set to sweep across Wales and England from today (Friday).
While the highest temperatures are expected in southern and eastern England, North Wales is also bracing for unusually hot conditions for the time of year. Areas of east Gwynedd, Wrexham, Llangollen and north Powys could see temperatures climb to around 28C by Bank Holiday Monday, with the heat expected to linger into the middle of next week.
The Met Office says the current conditions are remarkable because they are arriving so early in the year. Some forecasters believe parts of the UK could challenge the all-time May temperature record of 32.8C, set in 1922, while one weather model has even suggested highs of 36C in East Anglia – although meteorologists stress that figure is likely exaggerated.
Health officials have already issued national heat-health alerts for parts of the UK, warning that hot weather can place extra pressure on health services and pose risks to older people and those with underlying conditions.
In North Wales, tourism hotspots including Llandudno, Betws-y-Coed and coastal areas across Gwynedd are expected to become especially busy as visitors head outdoors to make the most of the sunshine during the Bank Holiday and school half-term break.
The warm spell is being driven by a plume of hot air moving north from continental Europe and the Iberian peninsula, combined with high pressure sitting over the UK.
Forecasters say overnight temperatures are also expected to remain unusually warm, especially in towns and cities, which could make sleeping difficult for some people.
Public health advice during the hot weather includes staying hydrated, avoiding strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day, keeping homes cool where possible, and checking in on vulnerable friends, relatives and neighbours.
There is also concern that the prolonged dry and warm conditions could increase wildfire risks in rural and upland parts of North Wales heading into the Bank Holiday weekend, particularly after several recent grass fires across the region during the spring.
