The United Kingdom is set to enjoy a balmy weekend with temperatures climbing above 20°C, potentially reaching 23°C in some areas, making parts of the country warmer than popular holiday destinations such as Ibiza, Athens, and the South of France, according to forecasters.
High Pressure System Brings Sunshine
After a prolonged period of cool and unsettled weather, a dominant high pressure system is now firmly in charge across the UK, delivering bright and dry conditions. While Tuesday saw the start of this sunny spell, easterly winds kept temperatures relatively low. However, as the weekend approaches, winds are expected to ease, allowing the mercury to rise further for many regions.
Met Office meteorologist Aiden McGivern explained: "We still do have high pressure across the UK keeping things dry and keeping things sunny for most. But with this easterly component to the wind we have seen low cloud creep inland and that low cloud is now pushing back towards the coast. So inland, for the vast majority, sunny skies."
Windy Start on Friday
On Friday, conditions will not be entirely calm, particularly in the south and southwest, where brisk winds could gust up to 45 mph, especially to the west of Dartmoor, making it feel cooler. Nonetheless, temperatures elsewhere will gradually rise into the high teens and low twenties, with some forecasts suggesting highs of around 23°C could be recorded.
UV Levels and Overnight Chills
Mr McGivern also cautioned that UV levels are expected to be high over the weekend. "The sun is strong so do bear that in mind if you're spending long periods outdoors," he said. "High pressure continues to be in charge. A lot of dry and bright weather to come."
Despite the daytime warmth, overnight temperatures will remain low. On Friday night, temperatures could fall to near freezing in parts of northern England, with low single figures across Scotland and the rest of Britain. The Met Office noted that "Saturday starts with some local chilly mornings, but sunshine will again allow temperatures to rise."
Northern Scotland Slightly Cooler
A weak low-pressure system moving through Scandinavia may introduce northerly winds, giving northern Scotland a fresher feel. However, most areas further south will enjoy warm conditions inland.
Sunday Peak and Comparison to Europe
By Sunday, winds will be generally light once more, and temperatures will build again for many, with highs in the low 20s possible and isolated spots reaching 22 or 23°C. This means temperatures will exceed those expected in Nice, in the south of France, which is forecast to see highs of 18°C on Sunday, and also in Ibiza, where temperatures will reach 20°C on Saturday.
Confidence in Prolonged Good Weather
The Met Office expressed high confidence that the good weather will continue, stating that their models indicate "a strong and consistent signal that high pressure will remain the dominant feature into next week."
