The UK is bracing itself for a scorching spell this week, with temperatures potentially soaring as high as 28 degrees Celsius in some areas. The Met Office's latest data paints a picture of an early summer taste, but not all regions will feel the full force of the heatwave.
England's South East and central regions are expected to bear the brunt of the warmth, with temperatures consistently reaching mid-20s. While 28C is the peak forecast, many areas will experience widespread warmth, with temperatures hovering in the low to mid-20s for several days. Light winds of around 5-10 mph will add to the pleasant conditions.
Scotland and Northern Ireland will also see a rise in temperatures, albeit slightly cooler than their southern counterparts, with highs potentially reaching 20-22C. Wales is expected to enjoy warmer weather, too, with temperatures in the low to mid-20s.
The Met Office has issued a warning for the public to stay safe during this period of increased warmth. This includes drinking plenty of water, seeking shade when it's hottest, and slathering on high-factor sun cream – even if skies are partly cloudy. While no official heat health warnings have been issued, sun safety advice remains crucial.
The sudden increase in heat is attributed to a southerly air flow bringing warmer air from continental Europe. Forecasters will continue to monitor the situation, but for now, it looks set to persist for the majority of the working week.