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UK Swelters in Unexpected March Heatwave
19 Mar
Summary
- Britain experienced its hottest day of the year so far with temperatures exceeding 20C.
- Warm air from Southern Europe is being pulled north, causing the unseasonably warm weather.
- The tree pollen season has begun, with very high levels of alder pollen reported.
Britain is currently experiencing a period of warmer-than-average March temperatures, leading many to enjoy outdoor activities. The country recorded its hottest day of the year recently, with highs reaching 20.9C in Wales and 20.2C in London. While today's temperatures are slightly cooler, they remain in the mid to high teens, significantly above the seasonal average.
Forecasters attribute this warm spell to southerly winds drawing warm air from southern Europe. This phenomenon, combined with high pressure and the Foehn effect, is responsible for the current pleasant conditions. Looking ahead, the spring equinox tomorrow is expected to bring peak temperatures to Scotland and Northern Ireland. The weekend is predicted to remain mostly dry with sunny spells across the UK.
Despite the favourable weather, the Met Office has announced the start of the tree pollen season, noting very high levels of alder pollen in the North. Looking further ahead, the forecast suggests a shift towards more changeable and unsettled conditions from next week, with a possibility of high pressure returning in early April, bringing dry weather but also potential overnight fog and frost.
