Is there a late spring heatwave on the way?

Following a week of unseasonably cold weather, the UK is now bracing for a significant temperature increase, with forecasts suggesting a potential heatwave could hit parts of the country just in time for the bank holiday weekend. Temperatures are expected to climb steadily, reaching highs of 28C in southeastern England by Friday, marking the warmest weather of the year so far.

The shift in weather patterns is attributed to a change in wind direction, moving from the cold northerly winds of last week to warmer south-westerly breezes from the Atlantic. While the prospect of sunshine and warmth is welcome, the Met Office has outlined the specific criteria for a heatwave: at least three consecutive days with temperatures exceeding a defined threshold, which varies by county. Some areas, particularly in Herefordshire and Worcestershire, are being highlighted as most likely to meet this definition.

However, the weekend's weather remains somewhat uncertain, with the possibility of showers affecting parts of Scotland, Wales, and western England on Saturday, and southern England on Sunday. Despite these potential interruptions, much of the UK is still expected to enjoy warm conditions, with temperatures ranging from 20C to 26C over the long weekend. An area of high pressure building in the north could bring dry weather on Monday, though an easterly wind might keep coastal areas cooler. Residents are advised to stay updated via the BBC Weather app for the latest forecasts.