**Wales Set to Sizzle: Weekend Weather Forecast Promises Sunshine and Highs Over 20°C**
As Wales heads into the weekend, all signs point to a spell of unseasonably warm and settled weather, making it a prime opportunity for residents to step outdoors and enjoy everything from seaside escapes to local festivals. However, those planning to spend extensive time under the sun are reminded of the importance of dressing suitably and remaining mindful of heat exposure, as temperatures are set to soar in many areas.
According to the latest updates from the Met Office, high pressure is expected to dominate across the UK well into the weekend before giving way briefly to showers and perhaps isolated thunderstorms, primarily affecting the southern and western regions. On Friday, conditions are likely to be exceptionally pleasant, with wall-to-wall sunshine for much of Wales. Temperatures will climb higher than earlier in the week as cloud cover thins, particularly in the east where onshore breezes will be less pronounced. In central parts such as the Midlands and across stretches of Wales, peak values could reach as high as 22°C.
While England may see temperatures peaking at around 25°C, Wales is forecast to bask in balmy highs of 21°C in some locations. Coastal regions, as usual, may feel a little fresher owing to sea breezes, but the overall outlook remains bright and largely dry, albeit with some cloudy spells. These conditions provide an inviting backdrop for anyone considering beach outings, open-air events, or simply relaxing at home.
On Friday afternoon, temperatures across the southeast of Wales are likely to hover around 19-20°C, while the western coastline sees slightly cooler figures at roughly 16-17°C. As the day progresses into evening, the warmth will gradually dissipate. Expect the mercury to sit at about 13°C in the northern town of Caernarfon, 16°C in Swansea, and a relatively pleasant 17°C in Cardiff by 8pm. By the late evening, inland locations may still feel mild at 12°C or 13°C, while the west coast cools towards 10°C.
Saturday is shaping up to be another fine day, starting off a touch cooler in the early hours. For instance, Wrexham will see morning readings of 12°C, Cardiff 13°C, and Monmouth 14°C. As midday approaches, however, temperatures are predicted to rise noticeably, reaching 21°C in hotspots like Monmouth and just marginally less in St Asaph and Swansea. The warmth is set to continue through the afternoon, with the 4pm hour holding onto the earlier highs.
Later on Saturday, temperatures may gently fade but are not expected to fall dramatically in the early evening. By 7pm, Wrexham could still be basking in 20°C, Cardiff at 19°C, and much of Carmarthenshire around 18°C. As nighttime falls, values across the region will typically settle between 13°C and 14°C.
Looking ahead to Sunday, conditions become more mixed. While much of Wales will experience increased cloud cover, the warmth will linger. Temperatures around 10am range from 15°C in Wrexham to 18°C in Caernarfon and 17°C in Monmouth. By early afternoon, the thermometer could climb back up to 21°C in a number of inland areas, sustaining the summery feel through much of the day.
By Sunday evening, the warmth begins to ebb, but it remains relatively mild: 18°C in Builth Wells, 16°C in Tregaron, and 14°C in Amlwch, with a general drop to 13-15°C expected by 10pm across the country. However, the Met Office does caution that the more settled weather could briefly give way to rain or the odd thunderstorm in the southwest late Saturday into Sunday, with further unsettled spells potentially reaching western regions and Northern Ireland as Monday approaches.
In summary, the weekend delivers a golden opportunity for residents and visitors in Wales to embrace the outdoors, though the usual precautions against heat and sun exposure apply. As ever, staying updated with the latest local forecasts is advised, particularly with the chance of showers coming into play late on Sunday. With temperatures set to rival those of earlier summer peaks, it is set to be a memorable weekend for many across the nation.