UK faces scorching heatwave lasting 'three days' as temperatures 'jump 7C'

A new "heatwave" map shows the UK roasting in a scorcher in May - with the maps and charts burning orange from May 11 to May 13 as warmer conditions sweep the country. Highs of 20C, 22C or even 24C have been predicted in parts of the country, with everywhere set to benefit, including as far north as Scotland.

Temperatures look poised to jump by as high as seven degrees, maps and charts from WX Charts, using Met Desk data, show. The projections come amid a torrid start to the fifth month of the year, with May greeted by heavy gales, thunderstorms and a risk of flooding.

The BBC warns of "wetter conditions" from May 6 to May 12 and adds from May 13 onwards: "There is a chance that similar conditions will prevail in the third week of May, with high pressure remaining well to the west or north-west of the UK and continuing the subdued temperature patterns seen earlier.

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"Temperatures could be around or below average. Later that week and into the fourth week of May, there are signs of a more westerly to south-westerly flow bringing wetter and windier conditions at times, but also opening a window of opportunity for temperatures to potentially rise above average.

"As the week progresses the low pressure is likely to remain closer to the UK or towards Iceland, so the changeable conditions are likely to continue. Confidence remains low at this stage." The predictions from the Beeb fly in the face of the update from WX Charts.

The BBC goes on: "We'll see which trend continues in late May and at the beginning of June and whether above average temperatures manage to win out." A Met Office outlook for mid-May onwards adds: "During the longer range outlook period, there is a greater chance of unsettled weather returning, especially across the south.

"This means that spells of wet weather are likely for most, notably across southern or central areas, while drier conditions on balance are more likely further north. There are no strong signs for any exceptional temperatures either above or below average, but warm days are possible as are some chilly nights."