**Wales Basks in Prolonged Sunshine: Met Office Issues Warm and Dry Forecast for Coming Weeks**
Wales is set to enjoy an extended spell of sunshine, with forecasts indicating little rain and above-average temperatures for much of the country in May. According to the most recent projections from the Met Office, high pressure systems are likely to remain in control, creating a persistently dry and settled weather pattern across the nation.
Current weather models suggest that, beyond isolated brief showers, any significant rainfall is expected to hold off for at least the next ten days. Most regions can anticipate a steady run of dry weather, with long periods of sunshine dominating the local landscape. Such conditions are a welcome change for many, following unpredictable weather earlier in the spring.
Notably, temperatures are poised to settle at mild values, with the highest readings predicted to reach up to 22°C in places like Monmouth by Saturday, 10 May. Light winds and clear skies are also forecast to contribute to a tranquil and pleasant spring atmosphere, ideal for outdoor activities and local events.
Looking ahead into mid-May, from Monday 12 May through to Wednesday 21 May, dry conditions are expected to persist for most of Wales and the wider UK. While high pressure remains firmly in place, forecasters have flagged the southwest of the UK as a possible exception, where thicker cloud cover could bring occasional showers or even heavy and thundery bursts of rain at the very start of this period. There is also a small possibility that these showers could spread to other areas, particularly on Monday.
By the end of the forecast window in late May, the Met Office expects the outlook to become slightly more volatile. Although settled and fine weather is still likely to dominate, a chance remains for more unsettled spells—particularly towards the south and southwest of Wales—where rain or sharp showers may reappear after several dry days. Temperatures should hold just above seasonal averages, with light winds during the day, although some parts could still see chilly nights.
Transitioning towards the end of May and into early June, the country is predicted to experience fairly typical spring weather, with an emphasis on dry and bright conditions. However, occasional interruptions in the form of rain or brief thunderstorms cannot be ruled out. Despite this, the majority of days are set to remain pleasant, and temperatures are forecast to continue trending at or slightly above what is normal for the time of year.
This period of sunny weather arrives on the back of what has been confirmed as the sunniest April the UK has experienced since records began in 1910. Preliminary data from the Met Office indicates that last month delivered 47% more sunlight hours than the national meteorological average, making April a notably bright month for much of the British Isles.
April’s sunshine was not just a UK-wide event; England recorded its brightest April on record, while Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland all enjoyed their second sunniest April ever documented. These figures highlight an exceptional period for springtime sunshine and point towards a potentially warm remainder of the season for the region.
Residents and visitors alike are being encouraged to make the most of the current fine weather, as the UK’s famously changeable climate means that periods of sustained sunshine are always something to cherish. Local tourism bodies are also hopeful that this run of good weather will provide a timely boost to the hospitality and tourism sectors as travellers look to explore the scenic beauty of Wales under blue skies.
While hints of unsettled conditions at the end of May serve as a reminder that rain can never be too far away, the immediate forecast from the Met Office offers plenty of cause for optimism for those hoping to embrace spring outdoors. As ever, meteorologists advise keeping a close eye on updated forecasts, as the detailed outlook can change rapidly. For now, however, Wales can look forward to a welcome spell of sunshine and warmth as May unfolds.