**Met Office Alerts Wales to Impending End of Warm Spell Amid Predictions of Heavy and Thundery Showers**
Residents across Wales have been making the most of a spell of unseasonably warm and sunny weather, with temperatures expected to continue climbing this week. However, the Met Office has now issued a warning that these balmy conditions will not persist, as the coming weeks are set to bring a dramatic shift to wetter, and at times thundery, weather.
Parts of Wales have been basking in sunshine, with forecasts suggesting temperatures could reach at least 25°C at their peak before the weather changes. The Met Office explained that high-pressure systems building across the UK are responsible for the current warm spell, bringing widespread sunshine and light winds, making for pleasant conditions in both rural and urban areas alike.
“We’re on course to experience the warmest spell of the year so far, especially across the southern regions,” commented meteorologist Craig Snell. “The trend for increased warmth is already underway, with central London and Hull recording highs of up to 21.5°C. Over the coming days, this warm spell will continue, offering plenty of sunshine.”
According to the national forecaster, Tuesday is expected to deliver “plenty of warm sunshine for all with light winds” and temperatures potentially hitting 25°C in some places. This run of dry, sunny weather is forecast to last through to Thursday, with little to no rain predicted and temperatures remaining well above the seasonal average for late April.
However, weather experts are cautioning that this pleasant spell is only temporary. Starting from Friday and heading into May, a period of transition is expected to bring a noticeable drop in temperature and the likelihood of more unsettled weather. The Met Office outlook between 2 May and 11 May points to cooler and more changeable conditions, particularly as cooler air spreads down from the north.
“Although the transition may bring some isolated rain, most regions will initially stay largely dry. Over the weekend, conditions are expected to be cooler but generally still fine,” said a Met Office spokesperson, while noting that areas in the north could see cloudier skies and brisker winds, increasing the chances of rain.
Looking further ahead, the weather is set to become more variable as we progress through early May. The Met Office anticipates a mix of dry spells punctuated by periods of rain, some of which may be heavy and accompanied by thunderstorms. This increase in unsettled weather is an unwelcome turnaround for those who were hoping the summer-like conditions might linger.
For the latter half of May, from 12 May to 26 May, the forecast suggests a pattern of classic spring weather will prevail. This means that while there will be opportunities for fair, dry days, these will be interspersed with bouts of heavy rain and the risk of thunderstorms. “Temperatures are likely to be near or slightly above average overall, but people should be prepared for rapidly changing conditions,” explained meteorologists.
The change serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of British springtime, where periods of sunshine and warmth can be swiftly replaced by cooler air and storms. It also offers a useful prompt for those planning outdoor events or activities in May to prepare for all eventualities.
Whilst the warm weather has been a welcome boost, especially after a lengthy run of unsettled conditions earlier in the year, the arrival of rain and thunderstorms is likely to bring both challenges and benefits. Farmers and gardeners, for instance, may welcome the promise of rain after a dry period, but heavy downpours could also cause localised flooding or travel disruption.
In summary, while Wales is currently enjoying a stretch of glorious weather, this is forecast to end as May approaches, with heavy and sometimes thundery rain expected to make a return. The advice from experts is clear: take advantage of the sunshine while it lasts, but keep an eye on the Met Office updates as the month unfolds.