UK weather: warmest day of the year with spring-like weather for some

The warmer southerly wind is also helping draw up a plume of Saharan dust to the UK which could bring a dramatic, fiery sunrises and sunsets over the coming days.

The dust from the Sahara has been picked up high into the atmosphere and is carried thousands of miles before gradually filtering down toward the surface.

As the fine particles scatter sunlight, they can enhance reds and oranges at dawn and dusk when conditions are right.

If the dust also combines with spells of rain, it can lead to what is often referred to as “blood rain”, leaving behind a thin, dirty residue on cars, windows and outdoor surfaces.

While it can appear dramatic, this is a relatively common and entirely natural seasonal event in the UK, according to the Met Office.

Episodes of Saharan dust transport occur several times a year, most often in late winter and spring, when southerly winds draw warm air northwards from north Africa towards the UK.

Look out for some particularly intense colours at dawn and dusk later on Wednesday, as well as during Thursday and Friday.

Dust concentrations are expected to be highest over southern England.