Warmest week of the year so far as sun beams down on Wales
FORECASTERS say this week could be the hottest of the year so far with temperatures rising to 180C across parts of the UK.
The warmest temperatures this week in Wales are likely to be today and Friday, with highs of 160C and plenty of sunny, dry weather across the country.
The Met Office said: “It has been a colder-than-average April so far, however, temperatures will rise above average in many areas today and it will feel much warmer.”
They are warning that the sunshine is as strong at this time of year as it is in late August, and are warning that if you are spending a lot of time outside this week, UV levels will be “moderate in most places and occasionally high”.
There is also a chance of overnight frost throughout the week.
Met Office forecaster Nick Miller said: “It has been a dryer-than-average spring so far, and there is no significant rain on the way this week. It is also going to be warmer this week.
“There will be warmth in the April sunshine, but it will turn a little cooler on Wednesday. High pressure going into Thursday is right on top of us. There will be some frost but there will be plenty of sunny, dry weather and on Thursday there will still be warmth in the strong sunshine.
“It will feel very pleasant when you are in the sunshine.”
Last year, the UK saw the sunniest April on record, according to the Met Office, but this year temperatures for the month have been a little below the average.
It was also the fifth-warmest April on record and the UK only received 40 per cent of average April rainfall.
Welsh forecaster Derek Brockway said: “This April has been drier and cooler than average so far. No significant rain in the week ahead.
“Plenty more dry weather thanks to high pressure. Some sunny spells. Breezier midweek onwards. Daytime highs 12 to 170C. Less cold at night, but still a risk of ground frost inland.”
Pub and restaurant owners across Wales will be hoping that the good weather lasts as they prepare to open outdoor hospitality from April 26.
In England, where businesses were allowed to open outside from last Monday, an estimated 2.7 million people enjoyed drinks outside pubs over the weekend, with around 250,000 venues now serving alcohol, while 20 million descended on high streets.
Around four million pints were drunk per day and a whopping £3bn was spent in England over the weekend.