Queen's Platinum Jubilee weather: Sunny across much of UK but showers in south east

Big Jubilee Lunch organizers today urged Brits to have their garage ready as a backup venue in case Sunday turns into a washout.

Much of the UK is heading for warmer weather as the Queen’s platinum jubilee approaches, but showers threaten to dampen celebrations in some areas.

While Sunday promises to be dry and bright for many of the millions gathering for more than 200,000 special lunches, showers are forecast for London and the South East.

Lindsey Brummitt, program director at Eden Project Communities, organizers of The Big Lunch, suggested it’s best to prepare for any eventuality.

“While sunshine isn’t guaranteed, we know a bit of rain won’t dampen Brits’ passion for street parties and community gatherings!” she told MailOnline.

“Fortunately, weatherproofing a street party and adapting to the elements isn’t all that difficult – we recommend gathering in the garage, getting those umbrellas out, or even taking the celebrations indoors if needed. Rain or shine, it’s going to be a corker!’

The four-day bank holiday gets off to a good and bright start for most, as Thursday, when the official program begins with military spectacle Trooping the Color in central London, is the best day for people across the country to enjoy street parties, barbecues and other outdoor activities -Events.

However, rain is likely to jeopardize some plans in western Scotland and Northern Ireland.

Some showers could spread across southern Britain throughout the day, while some sunshine is expected in other areas.

Saturday looks dry, with temperatures in the low 20s and sunshine for much of the country as a high pressure area moves in.

However, there is a risk of some heavy showers in areas “south of the M4” in England, Mr Claydon said, threatening the Epsom Derby and later the BBC’s open-air concert at the Palace.

Sunday promises to be dry and light for many of the millions who gather for the more than 200,000 special luncheons scheduled to take place on the day.

There’s still a chance people will need their umbrellas, with the possibility that the warm air will rush back to the south-east, bringing rain for the Jubilee Pageant parade through the streets of London.

“If you look at the northern part of the UK it’s a pretty decent long weekend but the uncertainty and the possibility of heavy showers in the south are still within reach,” Mr Claydon said.

The Met Office has urged Brits to go outside to pack sunglasses and sunscreen as UV levels will be high when the June sun emerges.

“There will be a lot of dry weather over the four days. Yes, still some showers here and there… but many places will see spells of sunshine and after a chilly start this week it will certainly feel warmer,” meteorologist Alex Deakin said.

It comes as hardcore royal fans camping out days ahead of the platinum anniversary laughed at torrential downpours that they said were “worth” being a part of the celebrations.

The rain hasn’t dampened spirits for those who will make their home in a handful of tents lining the side of the Mall in central London this week.

Royalists secured their seats near Buckingham Palace early in the hopes of getting the best view of the Queen and her family.

Pat Hart, 46, and his wife Angie, 51, traveled to the capital with their two daughters from near Toronto, Canada, on Saturday.

Ms Hart is on her third trip for a major royal event after camping for the Cambridges and Sussexes weddings.

She described camping as “a lot of fun,” adding, “Brits know how to pomp.”

They will camp their first night on Tuesday and remain in position until after Trooping the Color on Thursday.

After a downpour, Ms Hart said: “We’ve had some nice British hail and wind and rain but it’s worth it. It’s always worth it in the end and I think the harder it is the more rewarding it is.”

Laughing, she added, “I keep telling myself that anyway.”

Explaining why she wanted to travel to the UK and camp out to see the royals, she said: “I love the rich history. My grandmother was British and she taught me about England and Britain and the royal family.

“I have genuine respect and love for the Queen who has worked so tirelessly hard throughout her life. And it’s the anniversary year and to be honest, the Brits know better than anyone how to be ceremonial, pompous and ostentatious. It’s something very special.”

She described seeing the queen as “the bucket list,” adding, “That’s why we camp.”

Ms Hart said she “hopes and prays that she is physically able to do it”.

The Queen has restricted Platinum Jubilee Trooping the Color’s balcony appearance to working members of her family performing official public duties.

Eighteen royals will appear on Thursday including the monarch when mobility issues allow, the Prince of Wales, the Duchess of Cornwall and the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are returning to the UK for the anniversary but will not be on the balcony on Thursday.

Another royal fan and camper, Mary-Jane Willows, said she hopes to see Harry at some point as she’s “missed” him since moving to the US.

The 69-year-old, from Penzance in Cornwall, a retired chief executive of a children’s charity, said: “I think we missed him personally. I think I’m glad he did what he did for his own sanity, but I’ll be thrilled to see him back.”