UK weather maps show when 22C mini-heatwave will hit in April

UK have forecasted a new mini-heatwave hitting parts of the country later this month. Netweather's maps have turned orange and yellow, indicating that hot weather looks set to arrive on April 17. According to the weather agency, temperatures will reach up to 22C by 6:00pm. Areas mainly in the south including and Southampton, will be among those treated to the warmest conditions.

However, those in the Midlands and up north will also get to experience the sunshine as temperatures will range from 18C to 20C. Maps generated by WXCharts using, Metdesk data, show that warm weather will kick in from as early as 12:00pm. Cities including Birmingham and will experience 20C weather, Newcastle will see 18C heat, and Edinburgh should expect 17C.

In the Scottish Highlands, the weather is expected to be slightly colder, indicated by the lack of yellow on the Netweather map. However, temperatures will range between 9C and 19C.

According to Netweather's long-range Spring forecast for the year, temperatures will likely be "above average" in the second half of April.

The long-range forecast for April 16 to April 30 also forecasts above-average temperatures.

It states: "There could be some interludes of rain or showers for a time around mid April, but on the whole plenty of dry and fine weather is expected with high pressure looking to remain in charge for most of the time.

"Temperatures are likely to be around or a little above average overall, and feeling warm inland at times during the day, although some chilly nights are still possible under any clear skies."

Although the weather is set to be hotter than usual for the time of year, it is not categorised as an official heatwave by the Met Office, as the agency defines one as "an extended period of hot weather relative to the expected conditions of the area at that time of year, which may be accompanied by high humidity."

The Met Office's UK 5-day weather forecast

Today:

A dry day, with lots of blue skies and spring sunshine. It will remain rather breezy, particulary across England and Wales. Feeling warm in the sunshine, thought still on the chill side for places exposed to the wind.

Tonight:

A dry evening and night for many, with low cloud and fog forming in places. An increasing risk of showers across southwest England come dawn. Turning quite chilly.

Thursday:

Another sunny day for much of the UK. Cloudier skies across Wales and southwest England, with showery outbreak of rain developing here. Warm once again in the sunshine.

Outlook for Friday to Sunday:

Mostly dry through this period, with plenty of sunshine. Low cloud and fog patches forming at night. Staying warm in the south and west, chiller in the north and east.