Highest temperature of the year so far forecast for Northern Ireland this week

Northern Ireland could record its highest temperature of the year towards the end of this week.

Forecasters say sunny weather is expected mid-week, with warmer temperatures predicted across the north.

The Met Office said Northern Ireland could potentially record its highest temperature of the year so far this week, with temperatures of up to 18 degrees Celsius predicted.

It comes amid a wetter than average April where there has been less sunshine.

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Grey skies and wet weather meant April may have felt unusually cold despite temperatures being higher than average for the time of year, the Met Office said.

Cloudy conditions, spells of rain and a maximum temperature of around 13 degrees Celsius are forecast on Tuesday.

But the outlook is set to improve as the week goes on.

There will be warmer weather on Wednesday and Thursday with highs of around 17 or 18 degrees Celsius.

Friday is also expected to see warmer conditions.

Senior meteorologist at the Met Office Amy Bokota said: “Temperatures have been below average for the last couple of weeks, so certainly by the time we get to Wednesday, and probably into next weekend, temperatures will be warmer.

“It might not be the sort of glorious sort of heatwave that we’re hoping for ... but there probably will be some more pleasant and warmer weather for some people as we head towards the end of the week.”