Parts of the UK could experience the hottest day of the year on Wednesday as temperatures are forecast to hit 20C.
Some areas will see temperatures warmer than Barcelona and Athens, as heavy rain and blustery winds are set to clear for the north.
The weather is forecast to be dry and warm for most of the country after colder Arctic air has pushed temperatures down over the last few days.
Dan Harris, the chief forecaster at the Met Office, said: “Wednesday looks likely to be the warmest day of the week for many, with high pressure dominant.
“The warmest spots are likely to be in parts of west Wales and western England, where under sunny skies, 18 to 19C, possibly even 20C is on the cards.”
Skies will brighten across England and Wales throughout the day on Tuesday. However, most of Scotland and Northern Ireland are expected to hold on to thicker cloud and could see further outbreaks of rain.
Wednesday’s temperatures could beat the current highest temperature of the year, which was recorded in early March, when Northolt, London experienced 19.2C.
On Thursday, temperatures will drop slightly, but will remain dry and settled. By Friday, the Met Office expects temperatures to cool towards the seasonal average.
Mr Harris added: “This is due to the additional boost expected from the passage of east to south-easterly winds over areas of higher ground, known as the Foehn effect.
“There’ll be a big diurnal range this week, which is the difference between the maximum daytime temperature and minimum overnight temperature. Thanks to the clear skies during the day, we’ll see some chilly nights after the warmer days with a few places experiencing air frost.”
Met Office weather forecast for the week
Tuesday
A cloudy start for most with drizzle over western hills. Outbreaks of rain move into northwest Scotland and Northern Ireland later. Dry elsewhere and increasingly sunny across England and Wales. Feeling warm in the sunshine.
Overnight
Rain gradually eases across Scotland and Northern Ireland this evening. Clear skies elsewhere with mist and fog patches in England and Wales and a rural frost.
Wednesday
Dry for most with plenty of sunshine. However, skies will be cloudier across parts of Scotland and Northern Ireland, with the odd spot of drizzle. Warm in the sunshine.
Outlook for Thursday to Saturday
Mostly dry with sunny spells over the next few days. Another warm day on Thursday, but turning cooler from Friday. Chilly mornings with mist and fog patches.
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