Gradual Rise in Temperatures Expected
Although recent days have felt wintry for some, temperatures are expected to gradually increase, particularly later in the upcoming week.
After stabilizing around the mid to high teens, temperatures will rise into the low twenties across much of the United Kingdom from mid-week onwards.
In parts of south-east England, temperatures could reach as high as 26C by the end of the week, although some uncertainty remains given the forecast's lead time.
Sunshine will be present at intervals, but showers or longer periods of rain are also expected throughout the week.
The weekend will remain quite changeable, featuring a mix of sunshine and rain at times.
Saturday and Sunday Weather
With northerly winds prevailing across the UK, temperatures have been approximately 4-7C below average this week.
Showers, thunderstorms, and hail have been widespread, prompting some to question the state of spring weather.
Thunderstorms and hail are common during this time of year, as increased daylight and warmth contribute to the development of larger showers capable of producing hail.
As winds shift towards a more westerly direction over the weekend, temperatures will begin to feel warmer, although the weather will remain mixed.
Saturday will start bright, but cloud cover will increase from the west, bringing some rain to Northern Ireland and western regions of England and Wales.
By Sunday, temperatures are expected to rise to approximately 12-16C, close to the seasonal average. With lighter winds, conditions should feel warmer than earlier in the week.
Showers will mainly affect northern and western parts of the UK, while other areas will experience sunny spells.
Warmer, southerly winds will develop as the week progresses, pushing temperatures into the twenties for most regions.
Heat Builds Later in the Week
Moving into next week, temperatures will continue to rise gradually as winds shift to a south-westerly direction.
By Tuesday and Wednesday, temperatures are expected to reach or slightly exceed average values, ranging from 16-20C across most of the UK.
While some sunny intervals will occur, the weather will remain mixed with showers or longer spells of rain, particularly in northern and western areas.
Later in the week, temperatures are forecast to increase further, with 20-26C likely across most regions.
The highest temperatures are anticipated in south-east England.
It is possible that these temperatures may surpass the highest recorded so far this year:
- UK & England - 26.6C at Kew Gardens on 8 April
- Wales - 24.8C at Mona Airfield on 7 April
- Scotland - 23.9C at Achnagart on 31 April
- Northern Ireland - 21.5C at Altnahinch on 25 April
An area of high pressure is expected to build in from the south, bringing dry and mostly sunny weather to many areas.
There are indications that settled and warmer conditions will continue into the bank holiday weekend.
You can stay updated with the latest forecasts on the BBC Weather app or website.
Additional Information
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- Is the UK heading for another drought this summer?
- Warning of record global temperatures as chance of very strong El Niño grows
