Europe records highest May temperatures as heat dome persists

Europe experienced an exceptional heatwave this week under a persistent area of high pressure described as a heat dome. Temperatures across parts of the continent reached 10-15C above average for the time of year. The UK surpassed its previous May maximum temperature record on Tuesday when 35.1C was recorded at Kew Gardens, London.

This exceeded the 34.8C mark set the previous day in London. The prior May record of 32.8C had stood since 1922 and was matched in 1944. Ireland also broke its May maximum temperature record with 28.8C recorded at weather stations in Killarney and Clonmel.

Night-time minimum temperatures reached record levels as well, with Camborne in south-west England recording a minimum of 21.4C overnight on Tuesday.

France and regional impacts Temperatures in France reached 36C on Monday and Tuesday, marking the hottest May days on record there. A French government spokesperson stated the heat was responsible for seven deaths, either directly or indirectly, during the week.

Temperatures across parts of Europe are expected to remain 5-10C above average through the rest of the week before moderating gradually for the UK into next week.

Australia thunderstorms Severe thunderstorm warnings remained in effect across south-eastern and eastern Australia, with damaging winds, heavy rainfall and hail expected. The Bureau of Meteorology issued separate flash flood warnings. Dayboro in Queensland recorded 50mm of rain within a 30-minute period on Wednesday, while Narrabi in New South Wales recorded a wind gust of 65mph.

The Bureau of Meteorology stated six-hourly rainfall totals could reach 40-70mm, with locally higher amounts possible in parts of New South Wales by the end of the week.