Met Office official verdict on heatwave as temperatures set to soar

Beachgoers enjoy the hot weather at the beach, on September 09, 2023 in Weymouth, England.
Forecasters suggest higher temperatures are on the way -Credit:Getty Images


Bristol and the South West baked in summer temperatures last week, but a band of heavy rain put the dreams of an early summer heatwave abruptly to and end on Monday. While the temperatures are due to remain in the low teens for a while, there may be a chance of a warm spell on the horizon.

The Mirror reports that forecasters at WXCharts predict a slow climb into the low-to-mid 20s by the end of next week (Thursday, May 23). Similar temperatures could be seen in the Midlands and the North East of England, with Yorkshire potentially reaching highs of 22C.

London is also set to peak at 22C, while Northern Ireland could see highs of 23C. The forecast suggests that the warm weather, originating from North Africa, will continue into the following weekend, bringing plenty of sunshine.

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A yellow weather warning for heavy rain was issued yesterday, bringing an end to the hot weather we had last week. But, the weather is beginning to look up as weather maps show a blast of hot air moving up from Africa.

The Met Office's long-range forecast suggests that the UK will continue to feel warm throughout this week, despite an increase in rainfall. Showers and heavier downpours are expected to be a common feature across many areas.

Looking ahead to the weekend and beyond, the Met Office predicts changeable weather with a mix of sunshine and showers, and temperatures closer to the seasonal average.

Weather map for Thursday May 23
Weather map for Thursday May 23 -Credit:WXCharts

However, the Met Office long range forecast for the end of May into June suggests there may be a chance of 'above average' temperatures. It said: "There is a slightly higher likelihood of above average temperatures compared with below average temperatures, such that the chance of hot spells, although still very small, is slightly higher than normal too."

South West weather forecast

Today (Tuesday, May 14): A day of sunny spells and scattered showers on offer. Showers heavy and possibly thundery at times, and most likely to develop across western parts of the region. Feeling warm where you catch the sunshine, though rather breezy. Maximum temperature 17 °C.

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Tonight: Showers continuing into this evening and across some western parts overnight, though many places becoming dry with occasional clear spells. Staying rather breezy in the west and another mild night. Minimum temperature 11 °C.

Wednesday: Any low cloud breaking to leave another day of sunshine and showers. Showers mostly in the west, heavy at times with the odd rumble of thunder. Warm in the sunshine. Maximum temperature 18 °C.

Outlook for Thursday to Saturday: Changeable with sunny spells and scattered showers. Showers may be heavy and thundery at times. Still warm where you catch the sunshine, though with temperatures closer to average.