Britain Braces for Spring Warmth with Highs of 18°C Before Rainy Weekend

The UK is forecasted to enjoy warm weather this week with highs reaching 18°C, outpacing some southern European climates. However, a shift to rain and cooler temperatures is expected by Friday, maintaining patterns typical for March, as the country moves into spring.
The UK is set for warm weather this week, with temperatures projected to reach highs of 17°C (63°F) in London and the North East. By Thursday, there is potential for the temperature to reach 18°C (64°F), making parts of the UK warmer than popular southern European destinations. However, rain and unsettled conditions are expected to move in by Friday, leading to a change in weather patterns throughout the weekend.
According to Met Office forecaster Oli Claydon, the beginning of the week will feature increasing sunny spells, particularly across southern, central, and northern England. Highs of 16°C and 17°C are anticipated in sunny areas, with potential for temperatures to reach 18°C in the South East and London. Wednesday is expected to see more settled weather with alternating clouds and sunshine throughout the day.
From Friday onwards, the weather is expected to turn, bringing rain across the UK and breezy conditions due to low pressure. This change means the weekend will likely feature rain and scattered sunny spells, although significant cloud coverage and precipitation are anticipated. Mother’s Day on Sunday is predicted to have showers, with Mr. Claydon noting a more settled first half of the weekend compared to the second.
As temperatures cool towards the end of the week, Mr. Claydon emphasized that the drop is normal for March as spring develops. Last Thursday marked the warmest spring equinox day since 1972, with temperatures reaching 21.3°C (70.3°F) in Northolt and Chertsey. This surpassed the previous highs for March 9, 2025, and was close to the all-time spring equinox temperature record of 21.5°C (70.7°F) from 1972. Wales also recorded a significant warm day, reaching 20.4°C (68.7°F) at Gogerddan, establishing its warmest spring equinox to date.
In summary, the UK is about to experience a week of warm weather with significant levels of sunshine and temperatures peaking at 18°C. However, this pleasant weather will give way to rainy conditions starting Friday, with cooler temperatures expected as the weekend approaches. Notably, the recent warm temperatures have set records, highlighting a significant warming trend for this time of year as spring progresses.
Original Source: www.dailymail.co.uk