Summer sunshine to continue for many this weekend
The weather for most places over the past week has been stunning, thanks to an area of high pressure sitting across the UK.
Light winds and sunshine gave the warmest day of the year so far on Thursday, with the temperature reaching 25C (77F) at Solent in Hampshire.
This current spell of fine and warm weather follows the coldest spring in more than 50 years, where temperatures were significantly below average.
Unusually, March was colder than the winter months of December, January and February – the first time this has happened since 1975.
As the weekend fast approaches, there is no doubt that many of you will be making outdoor plans, hoping that the best spell of weather so far this year continues.
At the moment, it looks like most places will have a lovely weekend, but as always, there will be a few exceptions to the general rule.
Saturday
For much of the UK on Saturday, the weather is looking fine and dry with an abundance of sunshine and just a little fair weather cumulus cloud drifting across the sky.
The exceptions will be the North sea coast of England and Scotland, where mist and low cloud may linger in places all day. Also, the Scottish hills and mountains will see a few showers by the afternoon.
Temperatures won’t be quite as high as recent days – especially across southern parts of England and Wales, as a noticeable easterly breeze blows. Nevertheless, many places will reach 18-22C, except North sea coasts, where 13-17C is more likely.
Sunday
Sunday may start cloudier across eastern parts of England, but again, for most places, it’ll be another fine day with sunny spells.
North sea coasts will once again hold on to more cloud and the hills and mountains of Scotland and northern England could see some showers.
Temperatures will be highest in the west at 18-22C. Eastern areas will be closer to 16-20C, thanks to a breeze persisting off the chilly North sea.
UV and pollen levels
Given that we are just two weeks away from the longest day of the year, the sun is approaching its highest point in the sky and is very strong.
UV levels are going to be moderate to high across the UK this weekend. Don’t be fooled by the fact that there’s a cooling breeze, as you can still get burnt easily.
The fine weather is also going to keep the pollen levels at medium to high, which is not the best of news if you’re a hay fever sufferer.
Don’t forget, you can get the latest forecast on the website. If you take any summery weather pictures, please send them to me on Twitter – @liamdutton