Spring-like warmth
Temperatures in parts of the UK are expected to rise close to 20C this week, bringing the warmest weather of the year so far. Following a colder spell that included some wintry weather in certain areas, spring-like conditions are set to return.
This change in weather will coincide with the spring equilux, when day and night are of equal length, marking the end of a period with more darkness than daylight. The weather is also forecast to be mostly dry with some sunshine across most regions.
The recent colder Arctic air over the UK has caused temperatures to struggle to reach double figures in many locations. Alongside wintry showers and snow on higher ground, it has felt as though winter had returned.
However, during this week a warmer southerly wind will bring air from the Mediterranean, pushing temperatures approximately 6 or 7 degrees above average by Wednesday. Across England and Wales, temperatures are expected to reach the mid to high teens.
In Wales, it is very likely that the warmest day of the year so far will be recorded, with temperatures exceeding the 17.8C noted at Porthmadog on 5 March. There is also a possibility that areas in the Midlands, north-west England, or north-west Wales could experience temperatures close to 20C.
This could potentially surpass the UK's current highest temperature of the year, which stands at 19.2C, recorded in London earlier in March.
Temperatures are expected to peak on Wednesday, potentially making it the warmest day of the year so far.
The warmer weather arrives during the same week as the start of astronomical spring, or the spring equinox, which occurs on Friday 20 March. There has been a rapid increase in daylight hours over recent weeks, and from Wednesday onward, days will begin to be longer than nights.
Temperatures are expected to decrease slightly by Thursday and for the remainder of the week, but will still remain somewhat above average for this time of year.
Little rain in the forecast
Tuesday will see a lot of cloud cover with periods of rain in Northern Ireland and western Scotland, but conditions will become sunnier across England and Wales in the afternoon.
With high pressure extending over the UK, most areas are likely to remain dry for the rest of the week.
Some northern parts of the UK may experience lingering cloud, and other regions could see early morning mist and fog. However, most areas, particularly across England and Wales, are forecast to enjoy plenty of sunshine.
The drier weather is expected to continue into the weekend. While mornings may start with some cloud and murkiness, sunshine should develop throughout the day.
You can stay updated with your local forecast here.
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