Yahoo News Met Office responds to claims heatwave will hit UK next week
The Met Office have responded to claims that the UK could be hit by a heatwave next week. The Exeter-based forecaster confirmed that the nation will not be hit by sizzling temperatures as April comes to an end.
However, forecasters are expecting the mercury to be higher than usual next week. They expect temperatures to remain around the average of 15C.
A Met Office spokesperson told Yahoo News UK: "Looking at the long range outlook temperatures by the end of the month are likely to be near to or a little above average, and notably warmer in comparison to where they are now (significantly below)."
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They added: "While there is a small chance temperatures could be around 5C above average, at this time of year the average maximum temperature for southern UK is only around 15C, so still not reaching heatwave criteria."
In a forecast from May 9 onwards, the Met Office said: "In this period, the chances of unsettled weather are slightly less than usual in the north and about the same as usual further south. Therefore, some spells of wetter weather are likely for all.
"But perhaps especially southern areas with the driest conditions probably further north. Temperatures probably near average though with some cooler interludes possible. Also worth noting that average temperatures themselves rise by around 1C per week at this time of year."
Met Office 5-day forecast for the South West
This Evening and Tonight: Mostly dry this evening with some late sunshine in places and remaining generally dry with clear spells overnight. Turning rather cold with the chance of a frost forming in some rural areas. A few showers may break out later. Minimum temperature 3 °C.
Thursday: Rather cold to begin the day with scattered showers during the morning, these locally heavy. Turning drier and brighter with sunny spells through the afternoon. Breezier on some coasts. Cool. Maximum temperature 14 °C.
Outlook for Friday to Sunday: Generally cloudy with scattered showers and brief brighter interludes. Heavier rain probably arriving later on Saturday, with this only slowly easing on Sunday. Turning windy at times and feeling cool.
