Temperatures soared across parts of the UK on Wednesday, making it the warmest day of the year so far and one of the hottest April days in the last eight decades. The Met Office confirmed a high of 26.5C (79.7F) was recorded at Kew Gardens in south-west London.
This significant temperature makes it the hottest day recorded in the first half of April since 1946, according to Met Office data. The unseasonably warm conditions saw many across the country enjoying bright sunshine, particularly in southern and eastern regions of England.
While London and the South East experienced the peak of the warmth, other areas also saw elevated temperatures. Parts of central and eastern England recorded temperatures in the low to mid-20s, providing a taste of summer much earlier than usual. However, northern England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland generally saw slightly cooler but still pleasant conditions.
Despite the current heat, a significant change in the weather is on the horizon. The Met Office is forecasting a shift towards cooler temperatures and widespread rain across the UK in the coming days. This transition will bring an end to the current warm spell, with conditions returning closer to the seasonal average for April.
With the sudden shift from warm to cooler and potentially wet weather, the public is advised to take practical precautions. Those who have been enjoying the sunshine should remember to stay hydrated and use sun protection, even with the cooler weather approaching. When the rain arrives, drivers should be mindful of challenging road conditions due to surface water, and pedestrians should be prepared for slippery surfaces.