UK weather: Summer warmth returns, but heatwave chances scuppered

Summer warmth is set to return this weekend, though chances for another heatwave have been scuppered by a subtle shift in weather patterns.

High pressure that was forecast to build right across the UK is instead due to be centred to the west, bringing cool north-westerly winds.

However it will become largely dry and temperatures will climb to or slightly above the average for June.

It will mark a big change after a wet start to meteorological summer.

High pressure is set to build from the south.

However, instead of moving right across the UK it is expected to stall just to the west, sending north or north-westerly winds across the country.

This means that any really hot air will stay locked away to the south of us, contrary to what it looked like earlier in the week.

That said, it will feel pleasantly warm in the strong June sunshine, which will develop fairly widely in southern England, Wales and the Midlands during Saturday after any early low cloud clears.

Temperatures in these southern areas should reach 16-23C (61-73F).

Northern England, Northern Ireland and Scotland will see areas of cloud and a few showers. It will also be rather windy with gusts of 40mph (64km/h) or more in some places.

It will feel cooler here with temperatures peaking at 13-17C (55-63F).

On Sunday, winds will ease a little - although it will remain breezy in eastern and northern parts of the UK.

Dry conditions and sunny spells are expected, although an area of cloud may drift southwards for a time - perhaps even giving the odd light shower.

Afternoon temperatures will range from 13C (55F) in northern Scotland to 22 or 23C (72-73F) in south Wales and southern England.

Pollen levels are forecast to be high or very high in England, Wales and Northern Ireland but should remain low or moderate in Scotland.

High UV levels are also expected in the sunniest spots.