The UK is set to experience a spell of unseasonably warm weather this week, with temperatures in parts of southern England expected to surpass those in Istanbul. According to the Met Office, highs of 19°C are forecast for Thursday in the South East, while Istanbul will see only 6°C due to a change in weather patterns.
The spring equinox on Thursday will coincide with the warmest conditions, particularly in London and the South East. Scotland will also see temperatures above 10°C, and cities such as Liverpool, Sheffield and Manchester can expect between 13°C and 15°C. Met Office meteorologist Becky Mitchell described the weather as 'spring-like' with increasing sunshine.
However, the warmer weather is not expected to last. From Friday onwards, rain or showers are likely to arrive from the south or west, potentially spreading to all areas with strong winds at times. The long-range forecast to March 30 warns of unsettled conditions, with heavy rain possible, especially in southern parts.
Looking further ahead, confidence is low for April. The Met Office indicates that blocked patterns are most probable, leading to slow-moving areas of low and high pressure. This could result in extended dry or wet periods, with temperatures near average but a chance of below-average spells.
