As the UK braces for a significant shift in weather, forecasts indicate that next week will usher in much sunnier and warmer conditions across the country. Following a somewhat dreary end to this week, with occasional rain expected, temperatures are set to rise significantly, making it the warmest weather of the year so far.
On Saturday, April 26, 2025, temperatures are anticipated to range between 13-17°C, with some rain likely in western areas. However, a change is on the horizon. By Sunday, April 27, the rain will retreat to Scotland and Northern Ireland, allowing England and Wales to bask in sunnier skies and warmer temperatures. The London Marathon, set for the same day, is expected to be dry and mostly sunny, with temperatures starting at 13°C and climbing to 20 or 21°C by mid-afternoon. Meanwhile, participants in the Manchester Marathon will enjoy similar conditions, with temperatures peaking at 17°C.
As the week progresses, the Met Office predicts a steady increase in temperatures, reaching 22-23°C widely by early next week. In the Midlands and southeast England, temperatures could soar to between 25-27°C by Wednesday, April 30, 2025, marking a significant rise from the seasonal average. This warm spell has prompted many to dust off their barbecues and apply sunscreen in anticipation of enjoying the outdoors.
Historically, such warmth in April isn't unprecedented. The highest April temperature ever recorded in the UK was 29.4°C, achieved in London on April 16, 1949. The last time temperatures reached 27°C in April was in 2018 in Cambridge. This upcoming warm spell is further emphasized by a blocked weather pattern, with high pressure to the east of the UK and low pressure to the west, allowing warmer air from continental Europe to flow into the region.
According to a Met Office forecaster, "You might see some rain pushing through this evening (Thursday) and that could linger through the day on Friday." However, the forecast suggests a significant improvement over the weekend, with Saturday's highs reaching 17°C and similar temperatures expected on Sunday. As the week continues, temperatures may dip slightly on Monday, April 28, but are still expected to rise to around 18°C by Tuesday, April 29.
As the country gears up for this warm weather, many are looking forward to a potentially fine and very warm bank holiday weekend at the beginning of May. The early part of April has already seen unseasonably dry conditions across the UK, with temperatures peaking at 21.2°C in Castlederg, County Tyrone, and 20.7°C in Thomastown, County Fermanagh. This marks the earliest occurrence of temperatures reaching 20°C or more in Northern Ireland in 13 years, with the last instance being in late March 2012.
However, while the warm weather is on the way, the Met Office warns that the conditions may not last indefinitely. There is a possibility of a shift in the weather pattern by midweek, which could introduce cooler air and rain from the northwest. The Met Office's long-range forecast from April 28 to May 7 suggests that while the initial days will start off widely fine with sunny spells, the potential for cloud and rain will increase as the week progresses.
Oli Claydon, a spokesperson for the Met Office, stated, "It looks like both the Manchester and London marathons will be dry." This is good news for the approximately 56,000 participants expected to tackle the 26.2-mile route in the London Marathon, which could set a record as the largest marathon in the world if the number of finishers surpasses the 55,646 who completed the New York Marathon last November.
As the UK prepares for this mini heatwave, many are reminded of the unpredictability of weather patterns, especially in the context of climate change. The jet stream, which influences the UK's weather, is affected by temperature contrasts between the Arctic and the Tropics. As climate change continues to warm Arctic regions, there is a possibility that the jet stream will become weaker and more distorted, leading to more frequent blocked weather patterns.
In conclusion, as the UK transitions from a chilly spring to a potentially warm summer, residents are encouraged to take advantage of the upcoming sunny days. Whether it's participating in marathons, enjoying outdoor activities, or simply soaking up the sun, the forecasted warm weather offers a welcome reprieve from the typically unpredictable April conditions.
