UK Weather: Temperatures Soar to Seven-Year High
A significant heatwave has gripped the UK, with temperatures widely reaching the low to mid-twenties on Wednesday. According to the BBC, the hottest weather was recorded in south-east England, where the thermometer hit 26.7C (80.1F) in Wisley, Surrey. This marks the warmest spell of April weather for seven years.
The warm weather was not limited to England, with Scotland experiencing its highest April temperature since 2019. Aboyne in Aberdeenshire reached 24.4C (75.9F), a notable increase in temperature for the region. Wales also recorded a significant high, with Wednesday being the second-hottest April day on record. The national record of 26.2C was set in 2003 at Gogerddan, Ceredigion, and temperatures on Wednesday came close to beating that record.
In Northern Ireland, Wednesday was the second-hottest April day on record, reaching 24.1C in Castlederg. This falls just short of the previous high of 24.5C set in 1984. The warm weather was widespread, with high UV levels reported across most of the UK. However, the far north of Scotland experienced moderate UV levels.
The heat is set to intensify on Thursday, with temperatures forecast to reach the mid to high twenties across England and Wales. The BBC reports that temperatures could even reach 29C, which would exceed the record for the warmest start to May by a significant margin.
However, not all parts of the UK will experience the same level of warmth. Scotland and Northern Ireland are expected to turn cooler, with cloud and showers moving in. Temperatures in these regions will fall to around the early May average of 13 to 17C. Additionally, increasing humidity on Thursday will lead to a risk of heavy and thundery showers in parts of Wales, the Midlands, and eastern England.
The sudden and significant rise in temperatures has raised concerns about the potential impact on the environment and public health. As the UK continues to experience this heatwave, it is essential to stay informed about the latest weather forecasts and warnings.
The Met Office has reported that the heatwave is due to a high-pressure system that has moved over the UK, bringing clear skies and warm air from the continent. The BBC will continue to provide updates on the weather as the situation develops.
The UK’s weather patterns have been subject to significant changes in recent years, with many regions experiencing more extreme weather events. The BBC will continue to monitor and report on these changes, providing expert analysis and insights into the latest weather trends.
For the latest weather updates, visit the BBC website.
