UK weather: warmest day of the year with spring-like weather for some
Warm southerly winds are also helping to create a cloud of Saharan dust that could bring dramatic, fiery sunrises and sunsets to the UK in the coming days.
Dust from the Sahara collects high in the atmosphere and is transported for thousands of kilometers, then slowly filtered towards the surface.
As fine particles scatter sunlight, they can enhance the reds and oranges at dawn and dusk when conditions are right.
If dust also combines with rain, it causes what is often referred to as “blood rain,” leaving a fine, dirty residue on cars, windows and exterior surfaces.
While it may seem dramatic, this is a relatively common and completely natural seasonal occurrence in the UK, according to the Met Office.
Dust transport events in the Sahara occur several times a year; Mostly in late winter and spring, southerly winds pull warm air from North Africa towards the UK.
Watch for particularly intense colors at dawn and dusk on Thursday and Friday, as well as on Wednesday.
Dust concentrations are expected to be highest in southern England.
