UK heat wave ends after 12 deaths in record May temperatures

Record temperatures claim dozen lives

The Met Office said on Saturday that a record-breaking May heat wave which pushed temperatures to 35.1 degrees Celsius is breaking down, bringing to a close a week of scorching weather linked to 12 fatal water incidents across Britain. Chief Forecaster Chris Bulmer stated that cooler Atlantic air will move across the country over the weekend, returning temperatures to seasonal averages while bringing showers and thunderstorm risks.

The weather shift follows the recovery of 16-year-old Charlie Noble's body in Stirlingshire on Thursday, the latest victim among the dozen who drowned in rivers, lakes and reservoirs during the heat wave. England and Wales recorded their hottest May day on record earlier this week as the mercury hit 35.1C at Kew Gardens in west London.

Safety officials warn of cold water shock

Water safety authorities warned that risks remain high despite cooler conditions, with Ashley Jones, head of water safety at the Royal Life Saving Society UK, stating that cold water shock poses a continued threat. "Sudden immersion can cause an involuntary gasp, rapid breathing and panic, which can quickly lead to a loss of control in the water — even for strong swimmers," he said.

Jones urged people to use lifeguarded swimming areas, avoid swimming alone and call emergency services rather than entering the water if someone gets into difficulty. Forecasters said the unsettled weather pattern is expected to continue into next week, although warmer and more settled conditions could return later in June.