Europe is experiencing an exceptional late-spring heatwave, with the United Kingdom recording its hottest May day on record and France issuing unusually early heat alerts, in another sign of how climate change is reshaping the continent’s weather extremes.
The UK Met Office said a provisional temperature of 34.8°C was recorded at Kew Gardens in London on Monday, breaking both the country’s May and meteorological spring temperature records. The previous May record was 32.8°C, set in 1922 and 1944. If confirmed, the Met Office said it would mean that more than half of the UK’s monthly record highs- seven out of 12- have been set since 2003.
The heat was driven by warm air building under a high-pressure system near the UK, according to the Met Office. Such atmospheric patterns can trap heat close to the surface, allowing temperatures to climb well above seasonal norms. More broadly, it has linked the rising frequency of extreme temperature records to the warming climate.
People refill their water bottles from a fountain in Green Park during a heatwave as the UK experienced record temperatures for the month of May in London, Britain, May 25, 2026. REUTERS/Kevin Coombs
The heat was not limited to Britain. In France, hundreds of weather stations recorded May temperature records, while western regions were placed under heat alerts. Météo-France described the event as an early and intense spell of heat, with temperatures in some areas reaching levels more typical of summer than late spring.
Heatwaves are usually associated with midsummer, but scientists warn that earlier heat episodes can be especially disruptive. Populations, infrastructure and health systems may be less prepared in May, while schools, workplaces and outdoor events often continue under normal routines.
France’s decision to activate heat alerts in May underscores the growing concern among European authorities that extreme heat is no longer confined to the traditional summer peak. French forecasters said the episode was exceptional for the time of year, with heat alerts issued in several regions as temperatures climbed far above normal.
People jump into the River Great Ouse as temperatures climb over the bank holiday weekend during a heatwave, in Great Barford, Bedfordshire, Britain, May 24, 2026. REUTERS/Toby Shepheard
