County prepares for heatwave

Friday, 22 May 2026 22:57

By Made In Kent Radio News Team

Summer-like heat is expected over the long weekend

The South East is bracing for a roasting Bank Holiday weekend as a plume of hot air sends temperatures soaring past 28°C.

The Met Office is predicting a historic, record-breaking stretch of summer-like heat peaking over the long weekend. High pressure shifting over the country will drag hot air northwards, sending temperatures to 30°C on Saturday, 32°C on Sunday, and up to 33°C on Monday across London and the South East.

If the mercury hits 33°C, it will officially shatter the UK’s all-time May temperature record of 32.8°C which has stood since 1944.

Sun and Heatwave Warnings

Peak heat: Temperatures will hit their highest on Sunday and Monday.
Warm nights: Evening temperatures will remain uncomfortably high, hovering around 18°C.
Health alerts: Local health authorities have issued a yellow heat-health alert for vulnerable residents.

Travel and Coast Crowds

Traffic gridlock: Major routes to Brighton, Bournemouth, and Kent are already facing severe delays.
Packed beaches: Coastal areas expect hundreds of thousands of day-trippers seeking relief.
Rail disruptions: Speed restrictions are in place on some rail lines due to the risk of tracks buckling.

Safety Advice

Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water and avoid excessive alcohol intake in the direct sun.
Sun protection: Apply high-factor sunscreen and stay indoors during the peak UV hours of 11:00 to 15:00.
Water safety: Swim only at lifeguarded beaches and beware of cold water shock.

More from Made In Kent News

Blimp and you'll miss it!

A giant Goodyear blimp surprised people across Kent and London today, drifting slowly over the South East after crossing the Channel from Calais on Wednesday morning.
Sheerness paddling pool set for major revamp

Work has begun on a full refurbishment of the Beachfields paddling pool in Sheerness.
Hosepipe ban announced for 850,000 Kent residents as demand surges

South East Water has confirmed that a hosepipe ban will come into force for around 850,000 customers across Kent, following what the company describes as “high temperatures and record demand for water”.
Beleaguered water firm announce new boss

South East Water (SEW) has announced a new chief executive after its previous boss resigned. The heavily criticised water company said that John Halsall will take over from David Hinton, pending regulatory approval. Halsall has previously worked for Thames Water, South West Water and Network Rail.
"Do Not Travel" - rail firms urge during heatwave

Train operator Greater Thameslink Railway [GTR] has warned passengers not to travel as temperatures climb and a rare red warning for extreme heat comes into force this week.