‘Spring-like’ weather on the way as forecasters predict new high

‘Unbroken sunshine expected’ today

After the recent cold and grey conditions things are changing this week.

Firstly, it has been much brighter in the south than of late, with almost unbroken sunshine expected across England and Wales on Tuesday afternoon.

It will turn milder from Wednesday too, with temperatures several degrees above average on Thursday and Friday.

Temperatures then will widely reach 12 to 14 Celsius (54 to 57F), with highs of 16 Celsius (61F) possible.

Average February temperatures are more like 7 to 9 Celsius (45 to 48F).

Overnight frosts look unlikely after Tuesday night too.

Saturday doesn’t look quite so mild, but Sunday will see temperatures picking up again.

It may be turning milder, but it will become more unsettled, with spells of wind and rain from Wednesday.

The rain will be heaviest on western hills, with 48-hour rainfall totals to the end of Friday reaching 50 to 90mm.

The ground is quite wet, even though it’s been dry recently, so localised flooding is possible.

Strong winds will be a concern too, with coastal gales at times, especially in the west on Friday.

At the moment no weather warnings have been issued, but that may change with improving confidence in the forecast.