UK Sees Hottest April Day in Six Years

Parts of the UK experienced their hottest day of the year so far on Wednesday, as temperatures reached up to 26C in central and southeast England. This warm spell is expected to be the warmest early April weather since 2020, according to multiple reports.

The high temperatures coincided with school Easter holidays, prompting many families to flock to beaches across the country. Popular destinations included Bournemouth, Brighton, Weymouth, and Lyme Regis, where webcams showed crowds enjoying the sunshine. Local councils reported increased activity at seafront facilities, parks, and promenades.

The warm weather is attributed to southerly winds drawing in warmer air from the continent. However, this spell is expected to be short-lived, with temperatures dropping significantly on Thursday. The Met Office warned of a 'marked drop' in temperatures, with daytime highs potentially falling by around 10C between Wednesday and Thursday.

Alongside the warm weather, the UK is experiencing a 'pollen bomb', with very high pollen levels across much of England and Wales. This has raised concerns for hayfever sufferers. The Met Office also noted that UV levels will be moderate, which may catch people off guard after the long winter.

This warm spell comes in the wake of Storm Dave, which caused widespread damage and disruption over the Easter weekend with 70mph winds battering parts of northern England, Scotland, and Wales. The contrast between the storm's impact and the current warm weather highlights the UK's variable spring climate.