UK weather forecast: Brits bask in temperatures hotter than California and Ibiza as mercury hits 24C

Temperatures could hit 27C this week
PA
Imogen Braddick18 May 2020

Parts of the UK were hotter than California and tourist hotspots in Spain on Monday, ahead of what could be the hottest day of the year so far later this week.

The mercury was recorded at 24.2C in the afternoon at several locations in the south east, testing the nation’s resolve in maintaining social distancing in parks and open spaces amid the coronavirus outbreak.

The UK has enjoyed sunny weather for the last few days but temperatures are set to rise even further this week throughout most of the country, the Met Office said.

The temperature is expected to rise as high as 25C on Tuesday and 27C on Wednesday, which would surpass the 26.6C recorded in Treknow, Cornwall, on Good Friday.

UK stays alerts during Coronavirus - In pictures

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The UK was warmer on Monday than some leading tourist hotspots including Ibiza and Malibu.

The temperature in Scotland and Northern Ireland rose to highs of 18C, while Wales hit 18.8C, and northern England reached 22C by mid-afternoon.​

But there will be a “north-south divide” on Tuesday morning, according to Met Office forecaster Alex Burkill, as parts in Scotland will see light rain and drizzle.

Brits are reminded to abide by social distancing guidelines while enjoying the warm weather
REUTERS

But by the afternoon it will be warm and bright for large swathes of the UK.

Mr Burkill said: “It will be very bright for most in the UK, with warm temperatures and clear, blue skies. By the afternoon, parts in London and the South East could see highs of 25C (77F), while most other areas in the UK should hit the low 20s.

“But Wednesday could be the hottest day of the year so far, with the temperature potentially reaching a high of 27C (80.6F).

“Large swathes of the UK will be dry and sunny for all, as warm air moves in from the south.”

Swimmers in the Serpentine after it was officially reopened
REUTERS

Early-morning swimmers were spotted in the water at Britain’s oldest swimming club at the Serpentine in Hyde Park, west London, on Monday morning, after the easing of coronavirus lockdown measures.

The boss of London’s Olympic Park, Mark Camley, said the capital’s open spaces are likely to see “increasing numbers of people” as the weather remains warm and dry.

Boris Johnson eased the lockdown restrictions last week, allowing Brits to spend unlimited time outdoors - provided they keep two metres apart from each other and keep gatherings to a maximum of two people.

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