UK records new heat and sunshine highs that may boost solar power

The Met Office said the UK had its driest and sunniest spring in more than a century, and record-warm ocean waters pushed temperatures higher ahead of summer.

The Met Office said a mix of heat, strong sunshine and long-term climate shifts set the stage for an unusually warm weather year across the UK. By mid-May the agency reported the driest and sunniest spring in more than a century. Warmer ocean waters were reported as adding to temperature increases before summer. That summer included several heat waves and heightened wildfire risk, and water companies introduced hosepipe bans as drought conditions took hold in parts of England. Key points: - The Met Office reported the UK experienced its driest and sunniest spring in more than a century. - Record-warm ocean waters were reported as contributing to higher temperatures ahead of summer. - Summer brought multiple heat waves and increased wildfire risk, and water companies implemented hosepipe bans amid drought in parts of England. Summary: The article notes that the unusually dry, sunny and warm conditions have been described as a boost for solar power, while also coinciding with water stress and elevated wildfire risk. Undetermined at this time.