South-western France could hit 25C, while a powerful Nor’easter is forecast to bring blizzards to Boston
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An early taste of spring is on the way for millions across northern and western Europe this week. Temperatures could climb close to a near record-breaking 20C (68F) in parts of Belgium, Germany, Luxembourg and the Netherlands, with south-western France approaching 25C on Wednesday.
The warmth is being driven by a highly amplified synoptic pattern, featuring a region of low pressure over the Atlantic and strong high pressure over central Europe. The setup will allow exceptionally mild air to spread across much of the continent, with temperatures in some places rising to 10-15C above the seasonal average.
The dominance of high pressure will also bring largely dry conditions, offering welcome relief to areas that have endured an exceptionally wet February. However, Portugal and north-western Spain are likely to face further spells of heavy rain.
