Britain is set to be hotter than Corfu this week as temperatures are forecast to reach 23C, potentially marking the hottest days of the year so far. The warm spell follows a damp Bank Holiday weekend, with heavy rain expected across southern and northern regions on Monday.
Forecasters predict the mercury could climb to 23C from Tuesday onwards, surpassing the 22C expected in the Greek island of Corfu. Last week, a peak of 23.4C was recorded in Santon Downham, Suffolk, while Scotland saw 22.1C in Kinlochewe and Achnagart.
Met Office forecaster Marco Petagna said: “It’s a rare combination for the UK of late – but high pressure and warmth are on the way.” Weather Outlook forecaster Brian Gaze added: “It’s a big change, with around 23C shown on forecast models.”
The Met Office’s long-range forecast for 9-18 May indicates a strong signal for high pressure, bringing fine and dry weather for most areas. “Temperatures are expected to be slightly above normal for early May, with some very warm days possible,” the forecast reads.
After Monday’s clouds and heavy showers, Tuesday will see sunny spells developing. Wednesday to Friday are expected to be mostly fine and dry, though some rain may affect Northern Ireland and northern Scotland on Wednesday. High pressure is likely to dominate into the weekend, maintaining settled conditions before gradually weakening the following week.
