Temperatures in London are forecast to reach 28C on Friday, potentially making it the hottest day of the year so far, following an unusually cool May. The Met Office reports that most of the UK has experienced colder-than-average conditions since the first week of the month, but a significant warm-up is on the horizon.
Warm Spell Expected to Last
The warm weather returning to England and Wales on Friday is predicted to persist into next week. However, clouds and thundery showers could temper Saturday's heat, but if they fail to materialise, temperatures might exceed Friday's highs. A heatwave in the capital could be possible by Sunday, according to Met Office operational meteorologist Niamh Murray.
The heatwave threshold for London at this time of year is 28C for three consecutive days in the same location. Ms Murray noted: "If temperatures hold up on Saturday, we are expected to keep high pressure around into at least the first half of next week, so there is a potential that we may see those thresholds reached by the time we get to Sunday but… it’s not 100% certain on that yet."
Regional Temperature Variations
The contrast with the recent cool spell will make the weekend feel much warmer, Ms Murray added. Most of England and Wales, along with parts of Scotland, will see above-average temperatures. The east coast could experience mid to high 20Cs, while Wales and western parts of northern England may reach 25C. The hottest weather is expected in the south-east, particularly around London and potentially East Anglia.
UK-wide highs for this time of year typically average 15.5C, but recent temperatures have peaked at about 14C. The hottest day of the year so far was 26.6C recorded in Kew Gardens, west London, on April 8.
Outlook for the Week
Further showers are forecast for Wednesday, though they will be lighter and more isolated, Ms Murray said. Thursday will start cloudy for most, with some rain in Wales and parts of north-west England. However, the weather will brighten for many by the afternoon as clouds break up, particularly in the south.
