The weather during the long Ascension holiday weekend will vary greatly, with a wet start followed by warmer, sunnier days, according to the latest forecast by Weeronline.

Thursday, Ascension Day itself, will be mostly cloudy with light rain moving across the country, especially in northern and central regions. Some drizzle is also possible in the south.

Temperatures will remain on the cool side, ranging from 14 to 17°, with a moderate to fairly strong south-westerly wind. The weather is expected to improve later in the afternoon and evening, with drier conditions and occasional sunny spells pushing maximum temperatures to between 16 and 20°.

Friday will bring a significant improvement, with much of the country remaining dry and enjoying a mix of sunshine and clouds. A few local showers may still occur, but temperatures will rise, reaching 18° along the coast and up to 24° inland.

The weekend itself will feel more like summer. Saturday will be warm and humid, with plenty of sunshine and temperatures climbing to between 20 and 26°. However, the moisture in the air will encourage the formation of large cumulus clouds, which may produce a local rain or thunderstorm later in the day.

Sunday will have a mix of sun, cloud and occasional showers and the temperature will be slightly lower, ranging from 18 to 24°.

The KNMI’s long-range forecast is for slightly cooler weather, with sunshine and showers, well into June.