Parts of the UK are set to enjoy warmer temperatures than popular holiday destinations, such as Greece and Spain, this week, as a spell of dry and sunny weather sweeps across the country. According to the Met Office, temperatures are expected to steadily rise throughout the week, with the south of England possibly reaching a high of 21°C on Thursday. In addition, South Wales and Somerset could see temperatures peaking at 20°C, potentially surpassing the likes of Athens and Barcelona where temperatures of 17°C and 16°C are forecasted, respectively.
The weather forecast indicates that while Northern Ireland and north-west Scotland may experience some rain and cloudiness on Monday morning, the rest of the UK can expect dry and sunny conditions for the remainder of the week and into the weekend. Met Office spokesman Stephen Dixon noted that the UK is in for a fine, dry, and sunny week with temperatures well above the seasonal average. He expressed that high pressure over or near the UK will bring warm and dry weather, with Thursday possibly seeing temperatures reaching as high as 21°C.
As the week progresses, some low cloud in parts of the Midlands and central England on Tuesday morning is expected to clear quickly, with the South West possibly experiencing slightly breezier conditions mid-week. Despite this, temperatures are forecasted to remain warmer than usual for this time of year. There may be a touch of fog in eastern Scotland and north-east England on Friday and Saturday, which could lower temperatures in those areas. However, temperatures are still expected to hover around the mid-teens, surpassing the average maximum temperature of 12°C for April in the UK.
Although temperatures may gradually decrease on Saturday, they are still anticipated to be above average. The warm weather, while not reaching the record high of 29.4°C set in Camden Square, London in 1949, brought crowds to the south coast over the weekend. Seasonal businesses, such as ice cream parlours, experienced a boost in footfall, with 57-year-old Katy Alston, owner of Pinks Parlour in Bognor Regis, expressing gratitude for the surge in business brought on by the mild weather. She mentioned that the weekend’s weather was perfectly timed with Mother’s Day, providing a much-needed boost for businesses.
Looking ahead, the Met Office predicts that the dry weather is set to continue into the weekend and early next week. While the forecast is optimistic for the upcoming days, there is less certainty about the weather as April progresses. Katy Alston echoed this optimism, sharing her excitement and positivity about the forecast. The prospect of continued warm and dry weather is a welcome relief for many, offering a glimpse of brighter days to come.
In conclusion, as parts of the UK gear up for a week of sunshine and above-average temperatures, locals and visitors alike can look forward to a taste of summer in the midst of spring. With comparisons to warmer climates like Greece and Spain, the UK’s weather outlook is certainly a pleasant surprise for many. Whether it’s a day at the beach or enjoying outdoor activities, the upcoming week presents an opportunity to embrace the sunshine and make the most of the delightful weather on offer.