A late-spring surge in temperatures is expected to bring sunny spells and highs of 27°C to large parts of England and Wales by the end of May. According to forecasts, 45 counties will experience sustained warmth following a spell of wet and unsettled weather over the bank holiday weekend.
As May draws to a close, the UK Met Office and other meteorological agencies anticipate a period of stable weather. Residents from Lancashire to Kent are set to benefit from this warming trend, with the southeast of England likely to see the highest temperatures.
Warm Conditions to Follow Unsettled Bank Holiday Weather
Despite the impending warmth, the immediate forecast remains unsettled, with showers expected over the bank holiday weekend. According to the Met Office, parts of Scotland and the northwest of England are likely to see rainfall on Saturday and Sunday, affecting holiday travel and public events.
Motorists have been advised of increased traffic volumes, with the RAC estimating an additional 3.4 million leisure trips, while the AA warns of more than 20 million cars on the road over the weekend.
Temperatures on Thursday were relatively muted, reaching only 21°C in Cardiff, with eastern regions such as Essex recording just 15°C, according to Metdesk. However, a noticeable shift is forecast from Tuesday, as high pressure builds and dry, sunny spells become more widespread.
The warm spell is expected to last into early June, with the Ventusky weather platform suggesting the Midlands and Southeast could see highs up to 27°C, particularly in Greater London, Essex, and Hertfordshire.
Other areas forecast to reach at least 23°C include Yorkshire, Lancashire, and Flintshire in Wales, marking a significant rise in temperature across much of the country.
45 Counties to Experience Highs of 23C or More
A total of 45 counties across England and Wales are forecast to experience temperatures of 23°C or higher around Saturday, 31 May, with a few southeastern locations potentially reaching 27°C.
The warmest regions include Greater London, Essex, and Hertfordshire, while northern counties such as West Yorkshire and Lancashire are also expected to benefit from the favourable conditions.
In Wales, areas such as Flintshire, Wrexham, and Monmouthshire are included in the forecast, pointing to a nationwide shift in weather conditions.
According to Metdesk, these counties are likely to see consistent sunshine with minimal rainfall, aside from light showers predicted in the Midlands on Sunday, 1 June.
This incoming spell of stable, warm weather will follow a month marked by variable conditions, offering a temporary reprieve before the onset of the typically more unsettled British summer.
