A northwest/southeast split in the UK weather is expected this weekend, with the possibility of heatwave criteria being met in the south and east, whilst rain, perhaps heavy and thundery, may affect the north and west at times.
Unsettled in the northwest
Saturday will start rather cloudy for many areas with some patchy rain and drizzle affecting northern and western areas. Some showers will develop across Scotland and Northern Ireland but otherwise it will become largely dry. Clearer skies are likely to develop in the far south later in the day.
Sunday, however, will see a cold front bringing a short spell of heavy rain to western areas moving east through the day. However, there is a chance that a line of organised and perhaps severe thunderstorms could develop across central and northern areas during the afternoon, moving east into the evening.
Met Office Chief Meteorologist Matthew Lehnert said: “There are some marked contrasts in the UK’s weather this weekend, with some potentially impactful thunderstorms developing affecting the northern half of the UK on Sunday, while further south it will become hot.
“For those in the north, there is a chance of thunderstorms developing as we see a change to cooler conditions with a chance that these could become organised with heavy rain, hail, lightning and gusty winds. Whether thunderstorms develop is finely balanced and there is a possibility of warnings being issued, so keep an eye on the forecast this weekend for any updates.”
Rising temperatures in the southeast
Further south, much of southern, central and eastern England will see a rise in temperatures through the weekend. Temperatures could peak at 32°C in the far southeast on Sunday, and widely into the high 20s Celsius elsewhere in the south and east.
Matthew Lehnert continued: “Official heatwave criteria could be met for parts of southern and eastern England by the end of the weekend. It’s worth noting the temperatures in the south will remain quite high overnight this weekend, so it’s important to look out for those who may be more vulnerable to heat.”
The UK Health Security Agency, which covers the healthcare sector in England, has issued a Heat Health Alert.
Dr Agostinho Sousa, Head of Extreme Events and Health Protection at UKHSA, said: “This heat health alert means that in the coming days we are likely to experience another period of hot weather, so it’s important that everyone takes sensible precautions while enjoying the sun.
“Forecast temperatures this week could primarily impact those over the age of 65 or those with pre-existing health conditions. If you have friends, family or neighbours who are more vulnerable, it is important to check in on them and ensure they are aware of the forecasts and are following the necessary advice.”
Glastonbury weather forecast
The weather is set fair for much of the weekend at Glastonbury Festival with only a small chance of a shower. Friday and Saturday should see a good deal of dry, bright weather with some sunny spells with highs in the mid-20s, with some warm nights to follow once the sun goes down.
Sunday will start very warm and humid, with a small chance of a shower during the afternoon. Into the evening, temperatures will fall with a strengthening westerly breeze but will remain dry.
Further ahead
Temperatures will drop from their peak on Sunday and return closer to average early next week as cooler and fresher air is drawn off the Atlantic. In contrast to recent weeks, a westerly regime will be in charge with spells of stronger winds and rain at times, particularly in the northwest. Further south and east, it will often feel warm with relatively little rain though.
