A large band of southern England is set to see a brief warm spell later this month, with weather-model maps showing temperatures reaching as high as 22C in places by Friday evening, May 22. That short-lived rise could change plans for outdoor events and signals a temporary shift toward milder conditions across parts of the country.
Forecast graphics published by WXCharts, which use data supplied by MetDesk, highlight six counties where the thermometer may climb highest: West Sussex, East Sussex, Surrey, Kent, London and Essex. The warmest readings are expected away from exposed coasts, in sheltered inland pockets.
| Area | Expected peak (approx.) |
|---|---|
| West Sussex, East Sussex | Up to 22C |
| Surrey, London | Around 20–22C |
| Kent (eastern parts), Thames Estuary | Up to 22C in sheltered spots |
| Essex, Suffolk (border areas) | Low 20s inland, cooler on the coast |
| Rest of southern England & south Wales | Upper teens |
| Midlands | Late teens |
| Northern Wales, northern England, Scotland | About 13–17C |
| Northern Ireland | Possibly near 18C in places |
The maps show a roughly 100km-wide warm corridor across southern counties, with the most pronounced heating in protected inland hollows rather than exposed shoreline. Local geography will therefore determine whether any individual town sees the top figures or stays noticeably cooler.
- Outdoor plans: the warmer, drier pockets could make a difference for short-notice events and recreation later in the week.
- Temperature contrasts: expect a clear inland–coast split; sea breezes are likely to keep coastal areas several degrees cooler.
- Forecast confidence: model guidance points to a temporary improvement but not a guaranteed prolonged heat spell.
That caveat comes from the Met Office, whose extended outlook for the period from Thursday, May 14 to Saturday, May 23 describes an initially “changeable” phase with spells of rain and some heavier showers. The agency says pressure may rise from the southwest toward the end of that window, increasing the chance of drier conditions locally.
For the following fortnight, through to Sunday, June 7, the Met Office expects a greater tendency for more settled patterns compared with earlier in the month. Temperatures are forecast to recover to around seasonal averages and “perhaps become warm at times,” while early June is likely to bring more mixed conditions with both showers and drier interludes.
Weather charts give an early indication of what to expect, but short-range forecasts will refine the picture as the dates approach. Keep an eye on updates from national and local services if you are planning events or travel over the next two weeks.
Hi, I’m Benjamin, a member of the Sherburne County Citizen team. With a passion for writing and a deep interest in current affairs, I thoroughly enjoy bringing you the latest news and trends that affect our daily lives.
