Manchester to bask in 24°C sunshine, hotter than Corfu, as mini-heatwave arrives

Key facts

• Highs of 22°C expected in Greater Manchester on Thursday afternoon.
• Temperatures climb to 24°C in Manchester on Friday, hotter than Corfu.
• Sunshine peaks around 3pm on Friday.
• Saturday sees a drop to 19°C.
• Met Office warns of possible thundery showers on Friday evening.
• Brisk winds on Thursday make it feel fresh despite warmth.
• Snake Pass road closed due to fire, smoke across Greater Manchester.

Sun-drenched days ahead

Greater Manchester is set for two days of wall-to-wall sunshine, with temperatures soaring to 24°C on Friday — hotter than the Greek island of Corfu. The Met Office forecasts bright conditions across the region, peaking at around 3pm on Friday afternoon. Thursday will see highs of 22°C, with a brisk wind making it feel fresh in places. The warm spell is part of a broader UK trend, with much of the country enjoying similar conditions.

Friday's peak and a possible thunderstorm

Friday promises to be even warmer, with lighter winds and temperatures reaching 24°C in Manchester. However, the Met Office warns of an isolated shower in the afternoon that could turn thundery by the evening. The maximum temperature is forecast at 23°C, but localised highs may exceed that. The sunshine is expected to be uninterrupted for most of the day.

Weekend cooldown and lingering warmth

Saturday will feel slightly cooler, with highs of around 19°C. The mini-heatwave will subside, but the region will remain dry and bright. The Met Office's overall outlook for the North West on Thursday stated: "Another dry and sunny day across the region. After a chilly start, it will warm up through the day, although a brisk wind will make it feel fresh in places. Maximum temperature 21°C."

Snake Pass fire adds smoke to the sunshine

While the region basks in warmth, a fire on Snake Pass has led to road closures and smoke being smelled 'across Greater Manchester'. Emergency services are on the scene, and drivers are advised to avoid the area. of caution to an otherwise idyllic weather picture.

Context: a warm spell across the UK

The warm weather is part of a broader pattern affecting much of the United Kingdom. Temperatures are above average for this time of year, with many regions experiencing a mini-heatwave. The Met Office has not issued any heat health warnings, but the public is advised to stay hydrated and protect against sunburn during peak hours.

What comes next

After Friday's peak, temperatures will moderate into the weekend. The outlook for next week remains uncertain, with no immediate signs of another warm spell. Residents are encouraged to enjoy the sunshine while it lasts, but remain mindful of the fire risk and any local disruptions.

The bottom line

• Manchester will reach 24°C on Friday, hotter than Corfu.
• Thursday and Friday are sunny, with a possible thundery shower Friday evening.
• Saturday sees a drop to 19°C, but remains dry.
• Snake Pass fire causes road closure and smoke across the region.
• The warm spell is part of a UK-wide trend, with no heat warnings issued.
• Enjoy the sunshine but stay cautious of fire risks and afternoon storms.