Parts of the United Kingdom are set to experience a brief period of warm weather this weekend as hotter air from continental Europe moves in. Saturday is forecast to be dry and fine for England and Wales, while Scotland and Northern Ireland will see a mix of dry conditions with some scattered showers.

Sunday is expected to bring cloudier and damper conditions to Northern Ireland and western Scotland. However, south-westerly winds will draw warmer, humid air from Europe, likely resulting in hot conditions in the sunniest parts of England and Wales. Eastern Scotland is also anticipated to remain dry with periods of sunshine.

Temperatures could reach a high of 27C (81F) in southeastern England. Northern and southwestern England, along with Wales, may see temperatures up to 24C (75F). Northern Ireland and eastern Scotland are expected to experience highs around 20C (68F).

Map of UK and Europe showing orange and red colours where temperatures will be highest. South or south-westerly wind arrows show warm air approaching the UK. Meanwhile low pressure is shown sitting to the north-west

This period of warmth is expected to be short-lived, with more rain predicted for early next week.