The North East has been warned to expect heavy showers and thunderstorms as the end of August approaches. While this weekend is expected to be mostly dry with sunny spells, weather forecasts show a change from Tuesday, August 25.
The Met Office says there are likely to be showers and possibly thunderstorms, some locally heavy. In Newcastle, temperatures in the coming week will hover between 11C and 21C, remaining above 15C during the day.
Long-range forecast
Looking at the long-range weather forecast, showers or longer spells of rain are possible across many parts of the UK. Some heavy bursts and thunderstorms are likely, the experts say.
The UK forecast for the period between Wednesday, August 26, and Friday, September 4, says: "A relatively unsettled and changeable start of this period, as showers or longer spells of rain are possible across many parts of the UK. Some heavy bursts and thunderstorms are likely at times."
Thereafter, it will likely remain changeable through the rest of August and into early September, with rainfall amounts probably above average for the time of year and the potential for some stronger winds at times. However, some drier, more settled interludes could develop at times. Temperatures are likely to be near average, although some short-lived warm or hot spells are possible, especially in the south.
El Nino impact
This comes as weather specialists warned the UK is set to experience more storms and rain over upcoming autumn and winter seasons caused by an "unprecedented" El Nino event, as reported by ChronicleLive. El Nino is declared when sea temperatures in the tropical eastern Pacific rise 0.5C above the long-term average, impacting global rainfall patterns and average temperatures.
The natural warming of sea temperatures is forecast to reach more than 3C in the coming months, making this year's weather event "the largest since the 19th century", according to the Met Office. It creates a heightened risk of drought in the tropics, southern Africa and north-east Australia, while north-western Europe – including the UK – is likely to experience wetter and stormier conditions in the coming autumn and early winter, the forecaster said.
"We should be clear that this is an unprecedented event", Professor Adam Scaife, head of long range forecasting at the Met Office, said. "I have never seen an El Nino signal this intense in our forecasts."
North East weather forecast
Saturday: A dry and bright day with a mix of sunny spells and the odd coastal shower possible, but these clearing to the south during the afternoon. After a cool start, temperatures climbing to around average in the sunshine. Maximum temperature 18 °C.
Saturday night: A bright end to the day with sunny spells this evening. Remaining dry overnight with clear spells developing. Rather chilly, particularly in rural spots. Minimum temperature 7 °C.
Sunday: Dry and settled for most on Sunday, with plenty of late August sunshine on offer. Light winds and feeling warm in the sunshine. Maximum temperature 20 °C.
Outlook for Monday to Wednesday: Remaining largely dry with sunny spells on Monday. Showers and possibly thunderstorms developing from Tuesday, some locally heavy. Feeling warmer, especially in the sunshine.
