Temperatures expected to rise above 20°C next week in Northern Ireland
FINALLY ☀️
Warmer weather is expected to hit just in time for summer solstice tomorrow, as the Met Office confirms 'temperatures are gradually on the rise into this weekend.'
Forecasters have shared that 'more summer-like' conditions are on the way soon, which is welcomed by many as June felt rather cold for 'summer.'
Met Office Deputy Chief Meteorologist Mark Sidaway said: “In stark contrast to the first half of June, where temperatures have widely been below average, we are expecting to see a steady uptick through the second half of this week, rising to around or above average, and it will likely feel very warm for those in the sunshine.
“This initial spell of warm conditions isn’t expected to last too long however, as it turns more changeable through Friday and into the weekend with areas of cloud and rain spilling east across the UK.”
Five-day forecast for Northern Ireland 👇
Tonight: This evening will be dry with some late sunshine. Cloud and a little light rain will spread to the north and west overnight, but remaining dry and clear elsewhere. Minimum temperature 9 °C.
Thursday: Cloudy across the north and west with the odd light shower at first. Dry elsewhere with some warm sunny spells. Maximum temperature 20 °C.
Outlook for Friday to Sunday: After dry morning cloud and rain will spread east in the afternoon. Dry on Saturday but clouding over. Cloudy start on Sunday, brightening up later.
Fancy a trip to the beach when the good weather arrives? Check out our list of some of NI's forgotten but certainly spectacular beaches 👇
Kearney
A long narrow road along the Ards Peninsula will lead you to the charming village of Kearney. The village dates back to the early 18th century, and it's here you'll find stunning walks, coastal floral fauna and a fantastic sand/pebble cove.
Waterfoot
Waterfoot Beach is a tranquil escape for those looking to go off-the-grid for a few hours. The backdrop of Glenariff just adds to the beauty of this location, plus if it starts to cloud over you'll have somewhere nearby to visit and escape the rain.
Rossglass
With the iconic St John's Lighthouse to your left and the majestic Mourne Mountains to the right, Rossglass is an epic hidden gem! The beach offers a mixture of sand and rocks, so there's plenty to see and do as the little ones explore the shallow pools for sea creatures.
Carnlough Beach
Carnlough Beach is crescent-shaped and sandy, with a small harbour at the northern end. The harbour is one of the must see stop offs along the Causeway Coastal route for Game of Thrones fans. Glenarm beach would be a more popular spot with locals, it's just 2km south along the coast.
Brown's Bay
This small beach can be found on the northern tip of the Islandmagee Peninsula, it's the perfect point for a quick dip or even some rock fishing with the kids. On a clear sunny day, you can even see Scotland in the far-off distance.
Read more:
Helping rescue stranded dolphins was 'magic', says charity
Stendhal Festival comedy line-up 'ready to roll'
Foyle Maritime Festival to kick off the summer season in the North West