It’s getting warmer in the UK – with temperatures set to be well above average for the next few days.

With highs of 20C (68F) in parts of England today, forecasters say there’s a 30% chance of a new record being set for the hottest day of the year so far.

The figure to beat is the 20.9C (70F) seen in West Suffolk last Saturday as the heat drawn in from Storm Kathleen moved through.

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Sky News weather producer Joanna Robinson says this week’s warmer conditions are the result of a southwesterly airflow to the UK and Ireland.

She added: “Friday brings a greater chance of bringing the highest temperature of the year so far, with more in the way of sunshine.

“Up to 22C (72F) is possible in southeast England on Friday and perhaps again on Saturday before cooler air moves in from the North West.

“There will be some mild nights too, with temperatures widely staying in double figures on Thursday night and Friday night.”

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The Met Office forecast for Friday agrees, with England and Wales expected to be mostly dry with warm sunshine, but it will likely be cloudier in the far west.

London could see highs of 18C, while Belfast, Liverpool and Newcastle are all likely to see similar peaks of 17C.

The warm sunshine will continue in the South and South East on Saturday, according to the Met Office’s weekend outlook.

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Although some areas may not see overnight temperatures fall below 13C (55F), this is some way off the April record of 15.9C (60F) set in 2018.

While dry, warm and sunny conditions are definitely on the cards for some this weekend, not everyone will feel the benefit… with rain in northern and western areas at times.

It’s unfortunately not going to last either – cooler air is set to sink southwards and drag temperatures lower for everyone by Sunday.

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That theme continues at the start of next week, with blustery showers forecast for Monday, according to the Met Office.

So enjoy the warmer and sunnier weather while it lasts.

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