Britain is being treated to some truly spectacular skies with a sinister-sounding catch this week as a plume of Saharan dust sweeps across the country.
The fine particles, carried thousands of miles from North Africa on southerly winds, are creating the perfect conditions for dramatic golden and orange sunrises and sunsets.
Vibrant skies will be visible around the country through Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.
The dust travels high in the atmosphere before gradually filtering down towards ground level, and as those tiny particles scatter sunlight, they enhance the reds and oranges we see at dawn and dusk.
TRENDING
Stories
Videos
Your Say
However, the phenomenon also leads to a slightly less majestic weather phenomenon.
When the Saharan dust mixes with rain, it creates what's often called "blood rain", which leaves a thin, grimy residue on cars, windows and anything left outside.
Southern England is likely to see the most prominent buildup of dust, as that's where dust concentrations are expected to be at their highest.
Despite the ominous name, the Met Office has assured Britons that the upcoming weather events are nothing to be worried about.
Dust from the Sahara is set to sweep across UK, resulting in incredible weather changes
|GETTY
Saharan dust transport is a completely natural and relatively common occurrence in the UK.
These episodes happen several times a year, typically during late winter and spring when southerly winds pull warm air up from north Africa.
The dust arrives as the UK is set to receive a wave of spring-like warmth.
Much of the UK has been enjoying settled conditions after what was a cold and very wet start to the year.
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS
The phenomenon leads to reddish skies and the ominous sounding 'blood rain'
|GETTY
Mild south-westerly winds from the Atlantic have given temperatures a welcome boost.
Each home nation recorded its highest reading of 2026 so far over the weekend.
On Tuesday, Essex and Kent both hit 16.6C and could be set to climb higher.
South-east England might reach 18C in the sunshine – the warmest it's been since 13 November last year.
Temperatures across the UK are set to rise
|WXCHARTS
Wednesday is likely to be the warmest day of the week, so make the most of it.
Temperatures will drop back to average levels by the end of February, and Friday night could even bring frost for many areas.
Our Standards: The GB News Editorial Charter