Temperatures could hit 24°C across southern England this week as the Met Office forecasts an early taste of summer ahead of the bank holiday weekend, bringing relief after a changeable spring.
Southern and eastern England will see the best conditions, with London and the South East expecting sustained sunshine and highs of 22-24°C by mid-week. The Midlands and North East will also enjoy warm, sunny spells, whilst southern Wales should see similar temperatures to southern England.
Scotland faces more varied weather, with eastern areas staying drier and sunnier, reaching 18-20°C. Western Scotland and the Highlands will have more cloud and light showers, with temperatures in the mid-teens. Northern Ireland can expect mixed sunshine and cloud with temperatures between 16-19°C.
Northern England will see sunshine and cloud, though north-western areas may experience patchy drizzle. Wind speeds will remain light at 5-15mph, though coastal areas could face stronger gusts.
The Met Office warns of moderate to high UV levels, particularly in the south, urging people to use sunscreen, wear hats and stay hydrated. Vulnerable groups should take extra care during the warmer spell.
The settled conditions will likely encourage outdoor activities during the extended weekend, offering a welcome change for families and communities after recent cooler weather. Whilst long-range forecasts carry uncertainty, current indications point to a predominantly pleasant warm spell across much of the UK.