Warning over high pollen and UV levels as temperatures set to hit 29C
The conditions prompted the forecaster to warn people to take precautions when outside.
Temperatures are set to rise across the UK during the coming days.
Many of us can expect to see temperatures climb into the low to mid twenties, with locally high twenties for some by Thursday.
This is well above the late-April/early-May norm, which is usually 12-17°C. pic.twitter.com/zcomkve0rW
— Met Office (@metoffice) April 28, 2025
Met Office spokesman Oli Claydon said: 'Two areas people should be aware of during this warm spell are high pollen and high UV.
'Obviously, hay fever sufferers should be aware of this as well.'
Prolonged exposure to UV rays, emitted by the sun, can lead to sunburn and an increased risk of skin cancer.
People can protect themselves by wearing at least factor 30 sunscreen, spending regular time in the shade and wearing suitable clothing, according to NHS guidance.
People who suffer from pollen allergies should try to keep the particles out of their eyes, face and hair by staying indoors if they can, or by wearing a mask and hat when outside, medical charity Allergy UK said.
They are also advised to shower and wash their hair regularly, and to remove the top layer of clothing when coming indoors.
How can you stay safe when swimming in open water?
The water may look inviting in warm weather, but it can be very chilly at this time of year. Follow this advice ⤵️
▶️ Stop & think ▶️ Stay together▶️ Call 999 in an emergency & float
More ⤵️https://t.co/tpXsqI3AGY pic.twitter.com/Yrp6yi7ORw
— Met Office (@metoffice) April 28, 2025
The Met Office and London Fire Brigade have also urged caution around open water swimming after last month saw a 32% increase in water-related incidents compared with the same period last year, the LFB said.
Craig Carter, LFB assistant commissioner for prevention and protection, said: 'Whether you're walking by the river, spending time by canals or taking part in water-based activities, it's important to be aware of the risks and take simple precautions to stay safe around London's waterways.
'Even when the sun is shining, water temperatures can be dangerously cold. Cold water shock can affect anyone, no matter how fit or experienced they are.
'It can lead to water inhalation and, in the worst cases, drowning. Be particularly careful near the water's edge, it's easy to slip and fall unexpectedly.
'And think twice before jumping into open water.'
In the first quarter of 2025, LFB crews responded to 160 water-related incidents, averaging more than 13 per week compared with fewer than 11 a week in 2024, LFB said.
Will sunshine or rain prevail over the coming week? ☀️☔
Find out now with our look ahead ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/cHeFbPnzsq
— Met Office (@metoffice) April 28, 2025
There may also be an increased risk of wildfires as the warm temperatures follow a spell of dry weather in April and March, Mr Claydon said.
So far in April, the UK has only recorded 51% of its average rainfall for this month, which Mr Claydon said is 'well below average'.
Rain is expected later in the week, he added, with 'some showers developing in the south of England through Thursday and into Friday'.
Temperature records for April and May are unlikely to be broken this week as the record for April stands at 29.4C, and May's record is 32.8C, the Met Office said.
If temperatures reached 30C, it would be the earliest time of year for that figure to be recorded in the UK, with current record being May 12 in 1945, Mr Claydon said.
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