Storms, smog threaten to spoil spell of summertime warmth in UK

By Courtney Spamer, Meteorologist

May 7,2016; 9:16PM,EDT

 

 

Summerlike warmth will spread across the United Kingdom, but thundery weather and smog threaten to put a damper on barbecues, sports and other outdoor activities.
Mild air began to surge into the United Kingdom for the end of the workweek, but an even more noticeable warmup is in store for Sunday.
To accompany the summerlike conditions, showers, some thundery, will develop across Wales and Scotland, as well across the hills of central and northern England. However, these showers and thundery spells are expected to be more isolated and are not likely to turn severe.

Those with outdoor plans should stay tuned to AccuWeather's MinuteCast®. If you can hear thunder, you are close enough to the storm to be struck by lightning and you should seek shelter indoors. Showers are most likely to turn thundery during the afternoon hours.
The South of England and east coast of Britain are the areas most likely to see a dry and largely bright day. This includes areas from Plymouth to London.
"The warmest day of the weekend will be on Sunday," AccuWeather Meteorologist Tyler Roys said.
Highs on Sunday will reach 16-19 C (61-66 F) in coastal locations of England and Wales, the cool spot for those looking to escape the heat.
However, inland areas across England, Wales and even into southern Scotland will reach 20-25 C (68-77 F). London will be one of the warmest locations with a high expected to surge to near 27 C (80 F), a temperature that is more typical during a July or August heat wave.
Despite the heat, any sunshine that appears will be hazy.
The southeasterly winds will bring a collective stream of pollution from mainland Europe on Sunday, increasing the potential for smog. Areas expected to see the worst of the smog are inland parts of England and Wales, as well as across Northern Ireland and central Scotland.
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"Those with outdoor activities on Sunday afternoon should use caution," Roys warned.
"The moderate pollution levels could be problematic for sensitive groups, including those with respiratory issues, children and the elderly."
On Monday and Tuesday, the smog and haze potential should lessen as wet weather moves into southern England and Wales.
Despite the showers on Monday and Tuesday, the summerlike feel is expected to continue. Although the air will be a slightly cooler than the extreme heat on Sunday, mild weather will remain into middle of the week with temperatures well above average.
Content contributed by Meteorologist Adam Douty