Sunshine returns to parts of UK with warmer and drier weather on way

Sunshine is set to return to parts of the United Kingdom as warmer and drier conditions are forecast for the coming week. Temperatures could reach as high as 25 °C in parts of England and Wales, several degrees above the mean for the time of year. Forecasts for early next week show an area of high pressure building near the UK, which will mostly block Atlantic weather systems that often bring wind and rain from reaching the country. North‑west Scotland will see some rainfall, but these systems are not expected to move across the remainder of the UK, meaning drier weather, lighter winds and higher daytime temperatures for most areas. The past few weeks have been particularly changeable, with rainfall and strong winds affecting most parts of the UK. Despite this, the whole of Wales and most of England remain in drought. After stronger south‑westerly winds are due to strike cloud and outbreaks of rainfall from the west on Friday, the weather will begin to settle down over the weekend. The northern half of the UK will see a return to sunshine and blustery showers on Saturday, with most of the showers occurring in Scotland. The southern half of the UK is likely to be more cloudy and feel muggy, with the chance of light rainfall and drizzle.