UK Weather Maps Forecast 21C Heatwave for Five Counties This Weekend

New weather maps indicate that a significant warm spell is set to sweep across large parts of England and Wales within the coming days, bringing temperatures up to a balmy 21C in five counties. According to forecast data from WXCharts, which utilises MetDesk modelling, this heat blast is expected to arrive by Saturday, April 25, 2026, marking an unusually warm period for late April.

Southern and Midlands Regions to Experience Peak Heat

The highest temperatures are forecast to be concentrated across the south and Midlands of England. London is anticipated to be among the hottest spots, with highs of 21C predicted for the capital city. Nearby counties, including Berkshire and Surrey, are also set to enjoy these unusually warm conditions, with temperatures peaking at around 20C in areas such as Kent, Crawley, and Reading.

Further west, Worcestershire and the wider West Midlands region are in line for a warm afternoon, with highs reaching 21C and surrounding areas hovering at approximately 19C. More broadly, regions from roughly Leeds southwards—encompassing the Midlands, Wales, the South East, and South West—are expected to see temperatures ranging between 17C and 21C, with many locations comfortably sitting around the 18C to 19C mark.

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Contrasting Conditions in Northern Areas

In contrast, cooler air is set to linger across Scotland, where temperatures are forecast to remain between 7C and 9C in many areas. However, parts of the Highlands, particularly around Dumfries and Galloway, could experience warmer spells reaching up to 17C, while the Lake District may see highs of around 16C.

Met Office Forecast for Late April

This warm spell aligns with the Met Office's long-range forecast, which hints at largely dry conditions and sunny periods as we enter the final days of April. In its forecast from Saturday, April 25, until Monday, May 4, the forecaster stated: High pressure is likely to be centred close to or across the UK through much of this period, so many places will be largely dry with clear or sunny periods.

The Met Office added that some showery rain may affect northern and western parts over the weekend, with colder air attempting to push into the country from the north. This colder air is expected to make only limited progress into the northeast, potentially bringing a short-lived showery interlude, including some wintry conditions. Winds will be mostly light, but briefly stronger in the northeast as the colder air tries to move southwards. Temperatures are projected to be near or slightly above normal for many regions, though there is a risk of colder conditions affecting the north, especially the northeast, during the weekend.

Counties Set for 21C Weather This Week: