When will it get hot again in UK? Midlands set for best of 24C 'Saharan Plume'

Motorists are being warned of a potential threat to vehicles as weather maps indicate that a sizzling 'Saharan Plume' is approaching. The UK has so far experienced a week of wet and windy conditions, but hope is in sight for those seeking sunnier spells, as the temperatures are forecast to rise in the coming days.

Despite a week plagued by unpredictable weather, characterised by muggy temperatures and frequent rainfall, next week's forecasts hint at an upturn. From Sunday May 19 to Tuesday May 21, it's predicted we'll see a return of balmy temperatures and plenty of sunshine, making way for a potentially splendid half term break.

Predictions suggest the best of the weather will shine on the Midlands, Northeast England and Yorkshire, where certain regions are anticipated to bask in highs of around 23C.

Things are set to heat up even further come May 26, with London, the southeast and the south coast potentially seeing mercury levels touch a sweltering 24C. Meanwhile, the rest of the country is expected to stay comfortably above 20C.

Netweather reports that most of England can look forward to temperatures hovering between 22C and 24C. While a bit cooler, Wales will still have some spots surpassing 20C, with Northern Ireland showing a similar trend, reports the Mirror.

Adding their input, the Met Office has issued its own forecast for the upcoming week. Their prognosis for May 19 to May 28 is characterised as "changeable", with temperatures predicted to be "generally around or just above average."

The current forecast indicates: "Temperatures will be generally around or just a little above average. With winds tending to be light, it will feel warm in sunnier areas. As we head further into the following week, confidence lowers into the following week. On balance, a continuation of the showers in the south seems most likely, with the north continuing to see the best of any drier weather. Temperatures will probably remain a little above average."

There's growing speculation about another Saharan plume potentially warming up the UK soon. While the prospect of warmer weather might be welcome, it's important to note that such conditions can also pose risks to both people and vehicles.

One significant hazard associated with a Saharan plume is the dust it carries, which recently wreaked havoc across mainland Europe last month. This natural occurrence enchanted many with its hazy skies and vibrant sunsets, yet it also escalated air pollution levels, surpassing some of the European Union's safety thresholds in various regions, including popular vacation destination Spain.

In southern and eastern parts of the country, residents experienced air quality that was four times over the healthy limit for PM10 particle contamination, posing a particular threat to individuals with respiratory conditions like asthma.

The Saharan dust also poses a risk to vehicles, as the thin layer of dust that typically settles on cars after desert weather can scratch paintwork and windows if not properly removed. To safely clean off the dust without causing damage, motorists are advised not to rub or wipe the dust away, but to thoroughly rinse their vehicle first, ideally using a pre-wash, followed by a snow foam soak and a thorough rinse.