Weather

Many European destinations and warming up, and spring is definitely on the way. But which short-haul spot is most likely to give you sunshine and dry days over Easter? Here’s the destination with the best odds.

It feels like winter has dragged on forever this year, and many parts of the country are only just emerging from months of endless rain and grey skies to see a little bit of sunshine. With Easter on the way, which can be an unpredictable time for UK weather, many people will be looking to get away to the sunniest spot they can find for a few days.

Luckily, TUI has put together a list of the Easter getaways that are most likely to give you the ideal weather conditions, analysing historic data on the average rainfall, wind speed, and temperature in early-April to work out a Good Weather Score. Brits will be pleased to hear that topping the rankings is a destination just over four hours away from the UK that’s expected to see highs of 19C over the next couple of weeks.

According to TUI’s rankings, Turkey historically has the “most ideal weather conditions” during the Easter holidays, usually offering holidaymakers average temperatures of 18C. It’s also the destination where you’re least likely to be caught in an April shower. In the Easter holiday months, the amount of rainfall is just 0.01mm on average.

When the data was broken down into individual destinations, Marmaris in Turkey was the place most likely to give holidaymakers the best Easter weather conditions. It often reaches highs of 19C around Easter, and is usually dry with only light winds. Marmaris is in southwest Turkey in an area dubbed the Turkish Riviera. This lively port town has a marina, bustling grand bazaar, and historic sites such as the 16th-century Marmaris Castle.

Marmaris also has an amazing selection of sandy beaches that sit alongside its turquoise seas. Marmaris Long Beach (Uzunyali), is around six miles long, starting at the city centre, and has a lively promenade full of hotels, restaurants, and bars. A quieter alternative can be found at İçmeler Beach, just south of the city, where you’ll find sandy coves and incredible mountain views.

Second on the list for good weather was Greece, and this time of year brings mean temperatures of around 16C and long sunny days. Meanwhile, Bulgaria ranked third for its “pleasant and balanced climate”. Like Turkey it offers light winds and low rainfall, and Easter can be a good time to explore as tourist don’t have to contend with the intense summer heat. Bulgaria is becoming a major hiking destination, especially around the Rila and Pirin mountain ranges which combine gentle trails with more intense, steep climbs.

Bulgaria is also known for its stunning beaches. The Black Sea coast has 200 beaches to choose from and resorts to suit all sorts of holidaymakers. Sunny Beach is known for its lively nightlife and cheap drink deals, while Varna is a historic and cultural hub that has soft golden sand beaches and clear blue seas.

Anyone planning an Easter break can also check TUI’s holiday weather guide, which gives a breakdown of weather by month for popular tourist spots.

Europe’s top 10 destinations for good Easter weather

1. Turkey
2. Greece
3. Bulgaria
4. Spain
5. Croatia
6. Italy
7. Hungary
8. Portugal
9. Montenegro
10. Gibraltar

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British tourists who’ve jetted off to Tenerife to make the most of the island’s reputation as the “island of eternal spring” have been experiencing a “disappointing” holiday because of one issue

For those looking to escape the drizzle and freezing conditions of dreary Britain weather in favour of sand, sun, and some well-deserved rest, Tenerife is usually a safe bet. However, many visitors heading to the Spanish island – the largest of the popular Canary Islands and a firm favourite among Brits – this month have been left “disappointed”.

Tenerife is famed for its many beaches, holiday resorts, bars, restaurants, and stunning landscapes made up of volcanic mountains, vast national parks, and much more. It’s a perfect location for hiking, relaxing and observing the stars.

It’s appealing thanks to its reputation as the “island of eternal spring“, which comes from its temperate and stable climate all year round, where temperatures typically hover between 20 and 28 degrees.

Yet many Brits who’d been anticipating some sunshine and warmth are instead dealing with an unexpected chill. On the popular TikTok account Tenerife First Excursions, one man shared a first-hand account.

Speaking directly to the camera, he said: “If you’re wanting to know what the weather is like at the moment in Tenerife then I’m gonna disappoint you.”

He turned the camera to reveal thick grey clouds above, although there were patches of blue sky and bright sunshine breaking through in certain areas. He went on: “It has been like this for the last four or five days now, with a little bit of sunshine for an hour or so in between.”

He continued: “It’s been a disappointing week but then again, a lot of people are here for Cheltenham [Festival] so everyone’s in the bars, day drinking, having a good time. The sunshine is back on the weekend, though. I said to someone the other day, they absolutely love it. I said, ‘I absolutely love it when the sun’s back and I’d leave it with that.'”

In the comments section, fellow social media users were keen to share their views. One said: “Can’t believe how lucky I was. I was there for two weeks in Feb and it was scorching every day. Brilliant sunshine every day.”

Another wrote: “We come Sunday praying it gets warmer.” A third said: “I’m here on Tuesday! Hoping it improves!”

A fourth posted: “Here now and I did not bring enough warm clothes.” Someone else said: “It was c*** when I was there a couple of weeks ago. Roll on June.”

Another commented: “Dontttt I was there in Jan and it was perfect so I booked to come back again next week. I hope it gets better.”

One TikTok user revealed: “Mum and dad arrived yesterday and they are cold!! Been sat in hoodies in [the] apartment.”

Another said: “Been like that for 10 days now.” Someone else shared: “We left on Tuesday been there a week was absolutely gutted, no hot days till we were leaving, just my luck.”

However, one person added: “Absolutely love [Tenerife] whatever the weather.”

The best spots for your seaside getaway

As temperatures begin to climb, thoughts naturally turn towards seaside escapes. There’s nothing quite like the sound of crashing waves and the sensation of sand between your toes – but with countless stunning locations dotted around the UK, how do you decide where to visit?

For an ideal spring beach getaway, you’ll want maximum sunshine, pleasant temperatures and minimal rainfall – and that’s precisely where the specialists at Go Outdoors come in. They’ve put together a ranking of Britain’s finest beaches based on average spring temperatures, precipitation levels, hours of sunshine and Google reviews to identify the absolute cream of the crop.

Every beach featured received a rating out of 10 according to its weather conditions, rainfall and visitor feedback.

Taking the top spot is Cuckmere Haven with an impressive score of 9.60. This breathtaking beach sits in East Sussex and boasts a remarkable 7.8 hours of daily spring sunshine alongside just 52mm of monthly rainfall.

Those visiting the beach can first take in spectacular views of the Seven Sisters — England’s famous white cliffs overlooking the channel — before embarking on a picturesque stroll along the Cuckmere River as it winds its way towards the coast. Hear the cries of seagulls circling above, and feel the fresh sea breeze against your skin, reports the Express.

Claiming second position is Southwold Beach with a rating of 8.68 out of 10. This expanse of sand extends from the River Blyth’s mouth, passing Southwold Pier which offers plenty to discover.

There are arcade games and numerous cafés and restaurants where you can pop in for refreshments or a bite to eat. Securing the third spot, and boasting the highest Google review rating amongst all the beaches, is Druridge Bay Beach.

Google reviews rate this beach at a stellar 4.9 out of five, and the Go Outdoors research awarded it an impressive overall score of 8.53 out of 10.

The beach itself extends for seven miles, and the adjacent woodlands are teeming with wildlife such as roe deer and red squirrels.

The UK’s best beaches to visit this spring:

Rank

Beach

Location

Country

Avg. spring temper-ature (°C)

Avg. monthly spring rainfall (mm)

Avg. daily spring sunshine hours

Google review score /5

Overall score /10

1

Cuckmere Haven

East Sussex

England

9.5

52

7.8

4.8

9.60

2

Southwold Beach

Suffolk

England

8.9

48

8.0

4.7

8.68

3

Druridge Bay Beach

Northumberland

England

7.9

57

7.3

4.9

8.53

3

Pentle Bay

Tresco

England

10.3

59

7.2

4.8

8.53

5

Thornwick Bay

Flamborough Head

England

8.2

52

7.7

4.8

8.48

6

Kimmeridge Bay

Dorset

England

9.7

56

7.7

4.6

8.33

7

Rhossili Bay Beach

Gower

Wales

9.3

84

7.4

4.9

8.23

8

Barafundle Bay Beach

Pembrokeshire

Wales

9.4

69

7.0

4.9

8.22

9

Camber Sands

East Sussex

England

9.8

50

7.1

4.6

8.18

10

Porthcurno Beach

Cornwall

England

10.0

65

7.3

4.8

8.17

‘Supercell’ thunderstorms hit Illinois and Indiana, after eight people killed by tornadoes in US Midwest last week.

Two people have been killed in tornadoes in the Midwest region of the United States amid a spate of extreme weather, according to authorities.

At least four tornadoes touched down as intense “supercell” thunderstorms swept across northern Illinois and northwestern Indiana on Wednesday, according to the National Weather Service (NWS).

“Supercells” are the rarest form of thunderstorms. They are known to be particularly devastating for their prolonged durations and their “high propensity to produce severe weather, including damaging winds, very large hail, and sometimes weak to violent tornadoes”, according to the NWS.

In Indiana, local officials said an elderly couple had been killed when a tornado hit their home in the town of Lake Village.

Several residents in the wider Newton County were rescued by emergency responders, as the storm knocked down at least 70 utility poles and left some roads impassable.

In a video posted to social media late Tuesday, Sheriff Shannon Cothran warned people about trying to access the damaged areas.

“Please do not come here. Do not try to help right now,” Cothran said, standing in front of the couple’s destroyed home.

Parts of Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky and Ohio remained on tornado watch into the afternoon.

About 40km (25 miles) east of Lake Village, another tornado touched down in Kankakee County, Illinois, late Tuesday.

Officials said the tornado caused extensive damage as it travelled across the suburb of Aroma Park. At least nine people were injured, but no deaths were reported, according to local officials.

Cassidy Sinwelski, 23, told The Associated Press that the storm hit Kankakee harder than expected.

She and her husband took shelter in their home’s bathroom.

“We went into the bathroom, got a piece of plywood, and within minutes, I closed my eyes, the lights flickered, and we just — there was nothing,” Sinwelski said.

Then came loud rumbles and the sound of shattering glass.

“I just kept crying out for God, because I didn’t know what else to do,” she said.

The latest round of extreme weather comes after eight people were killed by tornadoes in the US states of Michigan and Oklahoma last week.

A British man in Spain has shared one big difference between the UK and Spain, claiming it’s something you’ll only notice once you leave the UK – but not everyone agreed with him

Spain has remained a firm favourite amongst Brits seeking a sun-soaked getaway for several years in a row. And It’s not just the brief flight time that appeals for holidaymakers, as the country also enjoys glorious weather throughout the entire year.

Data from the Office of National Statistics reveals that Brits clocked up more than 17.8 million trips to the Mediterranean nation in 2024, with figures projected to have climbed to 19.1 million in 2025. These holidays included trips to the Canary Islands and Costa Blanca, home to Benidorm. Further hotspots include the various Costas, the Balearic Islands, whilst the Northern regions are also seeing a surge in popularity.

Whilst the prospect of swapping Britain’s bleak and overcast winter months for brighter, warmer climes is undeniably attractive, there are certain contrasts many travellers might not have considered.

A British expat has now highlighted one major distinction between Spain and the UK, which may well explain why countless Brits are lured to the southern European nation.

On TikTok, a man called Mark posted footage of himself strolling through British streets back in January, showcasing murky skies with the sun conspicuously absent.

“You don’t realise how depressing it is until you leave the UK,” he captioned the clip, which then switched to show him wandering through Spain’s bright streets, lined with palm trees along the pavements.

“Why does the UK have a grey filter?” he pondered in the post’s caption.

Is the UK weather more grey than Spain?

From March 2026, the UK is forecast to see average temperatures ranging between 9C and lows of 2C, though some regions might also benefit from sunny spells with temperatures reaching up to 17 degrees in Eastern England on 5 March, according to the Met Office’s long range forecast.

Northern parts of England and Scotland are anticipated to face rain and storms, and potentially even some snow on higher ground, with overnight frost still possible between 4-13 March.

In contrast, Spanish March days are typically sunny, offering 6-8 hours of sunshine daily, alongside average temperatures of between 12-18 degrees. However, occasional brief rain showers should be expected, according to Tui.

Southern regions like Andalusia and the Canary Islands are the warmest (up to 21°C), whilst central and northern areas are cooler, creating perfect conditions for exploring the spring-blooming countryside.

Despite Mark’s post, numerous people quickly flocked to the comment section of his video to argue the UK weather isn’t as ‘depressing’ as he suggested.

“will never understand why people think grey skies are depressing,” one viewer commented.

Multiple people also pointed out that the UK can be equally sunny and warm at times, and that it’s unfair to judge the weather based on cold and overcast winter days, as the sunny summer days we experience deserve recognition.

This stunning resort town offers the perfect combination of beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife and exceptional value for money with cheap flights and affordable pints – what’s not to love?

Anyone seeking a quick getaway from Britain’s grey and gloomy weather this month need look no further than this sun-drenched resort nestled within this certified island paradise.

Boasting crystal-clear turquoise seas, endless stretches of pristine white sand, and delectable food at every turn, this resort town represents a traveller’s ultimate destination – particularly for those craving vibrant, energetic nightlife.

This former modest fishing hamlet has transformed into a bona fide tourist magnet, offering some of the planet’s finest beaches and water-based activities.

Despite the tourism explosion witnessed over recent decades, this dynamic resort has succeeded in preserving its authentic appeal and distinctive personality, positioning it as the perfect spot for those wanting to effortlessly jet away without breaking the bank.

Perched on Fuerteventura’s northern extremity in the Canary Islands, Corralejo delivers a bright and cheerful holiday experience packed with countless entertaining pursuits, reports the Express.

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Within La Oliva’s municipality, Corralejo’s surrounding landscape proves both extraordinary and spectacular – golden-white sand dunes, rugged volcanic terrain and seaside ambience blended with historic town character.

Corralejo merges its classic maritime heritage with a youthful and dynamic spirit, offering holidaymakers the perfect combination. Getting to this resort on Fuerteventura’s northern coastline is a doddle – and won’t break the bank.

Direct one-way flights from London Stansted Airport and London Luton Airport to Fuerteventura Airport in early March cost as little as £27, with a free allowance for one cabin bag included.

And it’s not just the airfare that’s easy on the wallet – a refreshing pint will set you back a mere £1.70 in this stunning tropical haven. Combine that with Fuerteventura’s glorious 21C March temperatures, and you’ve got all the ingredients for the perfect early spring escape.

Nestled just across the water from the breathtaking – and tiny – island of Los Lobos, the resort town of Corralejo is as postcard-perfect as it gets. Brimming with outstanding restaurants, delightful boutiques, and buzzing bars, it truly is the complete package.

A resort town with humble beginnings

Corralejo was once nothing more than a traditional fishing village, home to a handful of residents and little else. In fact, right up until the 1950s, the entire town boasted only around 11 surnames and a modest population of just over 100 people.

From those quiet beginnings, the resort has grown beyond all recognition to become what it is today: Fuerteventura’s most beloved tourist destination.

The area encompassing Corralejo and its iconic surrounding dunes was also where conqueror and crusader Gadifer de la Salle and his expedition first set foot on Fuerteventura back in 1402.

According to folklore handed down through the ages, Corralejo’s origins trace back to approximately 1810, though some historians argue that genuine settlement didn’t occur until at least the 1850s.

The earliest residents are known to have built their homes using stone and readily available materials sourced from the surrounding area.

Corralejo remained a modest fishing hamlet until the mid-20th century, with its economy and inhabitants heavily reliant upon the neighbouring municipality of La Oliva and goods shipped in from overseas.

Throughout much of its unassuming past, Corralejo existed as an unremarkable fishing settlement where a small number of impoverished fishermen toiled long hours to support their households.

The early 1970s marked the beginning of Corralejo’s tourism explosion, as its magnificent beaches and breathtaking dunes (at last) began drawing holidaymakers to its spectacular coastline.

Things to do in Corralejo

This Fuerteventura destination proves ideal for watersports, especially windsurfing and kitesurfing, thanks to the region’s reliable winds and perfect wave conditions.

Scuba diving, water skiing, jet skiing and snorkelling also rank amongst favourite pursuits for tourists, courtesy of Corralejo’s superb translucent waters.

Adjacent to the harbour, Town Beach (Playa del Viejo) suits those based in or around the town centre, whilst the Galera Beach vicinity and Waikiki Beach located at the town’s core are renowned for their tranquil waters, vibrant beach bars, and convivial ambience.

Playa Vista Lobos is another essential destination, renowned for its distinctive ‘popcorn’ shoreline and spectacular vistas of Lobos Island visible from the coast.

Flag Beach and Glass Beach are perfect spots for enthusiasts keen to enjoy windsurfing or kitesurfing.

The Corralejo Dunes, or Grandes Playas, nestled within the sprawling 11-kilometre Corralejo Natural Park, stand out as arguably the resort’s most celebrated attraction – and justifiably so.

The unspoilt white sand dunes form an untouched coastal haven unlike anywhere else, cementing its status as an essential destination for anyone exploring Corralejo.

Stunning panoramas of Los Lobos and neighbouring Lanzarote further enhance the location’s allure. Native plant and animal species thriving within the Natural Park provide an extra treat for nature lovers.

The old town in Corralejo serves as the resort’s beating heart, featuring delightful narrow lanes packed with seafood restaurants and outstanding dining establishments – a haven for culinary enthusiasts.

Corralejo Old Town teems with characteristic whitewashed buildings, intimate bars and independent retailers, alongside a working harbour where fishing boats still operate.

Avenida General Franco, commonly referred to as Main Street, extends from the old town and hosts some of the resort’s most celebrated international restaurants, shopping complexes, and the bustling Music Square.

Visitors can also depart from Corralejo’s harbour to discover the neighbouring volcanic islands of Lobos and Lanzarote, either through glass-bottom boat excursions or by hopping aboard the regularly scheduled ferry services that connect the Canary Islands.

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This stunning island off the east coast of Africais known for its budget-friendly prices and being the birthplace of Freddie Mercury.

Temperatures are beginning to rise across the UK, prompting many Brits to start planning their summer getaway, and jetting off to somewhere tropical doesn’t have to break the bank. One destination worth considering is Zanzibar Island, also called Unguja, a beautiful island situated off Africa’s eastern coast, just above Tanzania.

Zanzibar Island is renowned for its coastline, where the sand is remarkably fine, making it ideal for anyone simply seeking a sunny spot to unwind. Paje beach has earned recognition as one of the world’s finest beaches, thanks to its landscape featuring swaying palm trees, shimmering azure waters and a spectacular sunset vista across the Indian Ocean.

Yet Zanzibar offers far more than just beaches, particularly for wildlife enthusiasts, as it’s home to Jozani Forest, a national park sheltering creatures found nowhere else on Earth.

The red colobus monkey exists exclusively on Zanzibar and is recognised by its distinctive red-striped coat and vocal nature; you’ll frequently hear it communicating with fellow group members.

Visitors can encounter numerous wild species, including blue monkeys, bush babies, elephant shrews, and an array of exotic birdlife, reports the Express.

Zanzibar’s eastern shoreline is also famous for hosting a substantial population of vibrant starfish, and boat excursions are available for snorkelling alongside these remarkable marine animals. It’s an outstanding destination for snorkelling and scuba diving enthusiasts, as coral reefs line much of the island’s shores, teeming with parrotfish, clownfish, angel fish and occasionally even reef sharks.

Plenty of travellers also relish hiring transparent kayaks, allowing you to glide around the island whilst capturing photographs of the stunning azure waters.

Zanzibar has earned the moniker Spice Island, being amongst the world’s leading clove producers, whilst also cultivating cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, mace and black pepper.

Visitors can explore spice plantations to witness the island’s verdant crop gardens and join guided tours where you’ll sample fresh spices straight from the plants.

It’s equally worthwhile simply strolling through Stone Town, the capital, which holds UNESCO World Heritage status thanks to its distinctive Swahili architecture, shaped by Indian, Arab and European influences.

Stone Town is renowned for its bustling markets, narrow alleyways and exquisitely carved wooden doors adorning the structures. It’s also Freddie Mercury’s birthplace, and you can tour his childhood residence and discover a museum celebrating the legendary performer.

Countless visitors adore Zanzibar for its sweltering climate, and during this period temperatures typically hover around 30C, dropping to 25C after dark.

Nevertheless, many holidaymakers favour Zanzibar because it’s considered remarkably affordable, with TripAdvisor users reporting it’s perfectly feasible to dine out for just a few quid. One holidaymaker reported: “A local beer is about £2.50 in a nice bar. A glass of wine (always South African) is a bit more. Soft drinks are fairly cheap. The local ginger beer (Tangawizi) is worth experiencing.”

Another traveller commented: “My experience is that for dinner and drinks (a two course meal, a glass of wine and lots of bottled water) one would expect to pay around £10 per head in Zanzibar, including Stone Town.”

A third visitor noted: “In the very local style places we are eating: large bottles of water for $1.50, Sprite/Coke $2, juice $3, beer and Savannah cider $3 and a glass of wine $3-$4.”

A rare weather phenomenon known as calima is set to sweep across parts of Europe, hitting major holiday hotspots with ‘blood rain’ possible, leaving dramatic orange-coated scenes

Brits could be battered by ‘blood rain’ during a rare weather phenomenon set to engulf parts of Europe.

A Saharan dust cloud is set to sweep across parts of Spain and the Balearic Islands, hitting major holiday hotspots such as Tenerife, Lanzarote, Gran Canaria, Majorca, Menorca and Ibiza. The phenomenon, known as Calima, is being driven by a high-altitude, isolated depression (DANA) that is transporting large amounts of sand from Morocco and Mauritania into southern Europe.

Instead of basking in the Spanish heat, tourists face the prospect of orange-tinted dust, hazy skies and reduced visibility. The Spanish weather agency, AEMET, also warned that calima “worsens air quality due to microscopic particles, which can reach the respiratory tract”.

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Holidaymakers and locals should also brace themselves for “blood rain,” which occurs when the orange dust is mixed with rain. Heavy rain has been predicted for parts of Spain, which could result in thick layers of dust engulfing the Spanish hotspots, dramatically changing the scene, leaving cars scattered with dust and murky swimming pools.

The weather is forecast to be worse in the southeast parts of Spain, along the Mediterranean coast and the Balearic Islands. The AEMET issued a weather warning on X, formerly Twitter, and said: “Very adverse weather in the Canary Islands: showers that could be very heavy, today accompanied by storms in the eastern islands; very strong wind gusts; rough seas.”

The agency noted on Sunday that the “weather is expected to improve.” The phenomenon has also brought an unusually warm air mass, with soaring temperatures up to 25C in southeastern regions and the Canary Islands, and Bilbao hitting a blistering 27C in February.

This isn’t the first time the Canary Islands have experienced a calima, including Lanzarote, which typically occurs during the winter months. The calima is a hot, oppressive wind that arises when high pressure builds over the Sahara, subsequently driving winds that carry Saharan temperatures and sand.

Explaining further, Lanzarote Information said: “During a calima, the air turns a white or even a yellow colour and you can literally smell the sand in the air from the Desert.

“Visibility is reduced, and there’s a kind of otherworldly quality to the light. Often strange insects accompany the winds – in recent years we have had locusts, ladybirds and dragonflies that arrive on the island.

“They rarely last for very long here, as there is so little for them to eat due to the desert nature of Lanzarote. Sometimes unusual birds are blown over on the wind as well, so look out for them.”

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Search and rescue workers are looking for more than 40 people who remain missing as towns reel from torrential rainfall.

Torrential rainfall has caused floods across the state of Minas Gerais in southeastern Brazil, killing at least 23 people.

Dozens of emergency workers, some with disaster-trained search dogs, combed through mounds of debris on Tuesday in the municipality of Juiz de Fora, which recorded at least 18 deaths.

They were on the lookout for the more than 40 people who have been missing since the rains began on Monday.

“We’ve been here since last night to see if they survive underground,” Livia Rosa, a 44-year-old seamstress, told the news service AFP.

She explained that several of her relatives were buried in the mud. “Hope is the last thing to die.”

Rainfall in the region is expected to continue for the coming days, complicating rescue efforts.

Images of the initial floods show mud and sludge clogging areas of Juiz de Fora, after a swollen river veered off course.

At least 440 people were displaced in the city, located about 310km (192 miles) north of Rio de Janeiro. At least seven deaths were also recorded in the nearby town of Uba.

The mayor of Juiz de Fora, Margarida Salomao, said that at least 20 landslides had been reported in the area, and some homes collapsed.

“Many people were inside their homes at night when it was raining,” Major Demetrius Goulart of the fire brigade told AFP. “We have hope. We found a boy this morning. He was inside a house, under the rubble. It took the team two hours of work.”

At least 108 officials from the Minas Gerais fire department have been deployed to Juiz de Fora, and 28 to Uba.

President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva said the government would assist in any way it could and offered his support to those affected.

“Our focus is to ensure humanitarian assistance, the restoration of basic services, support for displaced people, and aid for reconstruction,” he wrote in a social media post.

Salomao said in a social media post that the province has experienced its wettest February on record.

“There were more than 180mm [of rain] in four hours, intense, destructive and persistent,” he said, calling it “the saddest day of my administration”.

“Here, we remain fully committed and prioritising saving lives.”

I swapped grey British skies for 23°C sunshine in a beautiful city this February

February in Britain typically brings relentless grey skies, persistent rain and blustery conditions whilst we eagerly await the arrival of spring. The dreary weather and bitter temperatures can make winter seem interminable. Yet just three hours away, I discovered myself soaking up 23°C sunshine in a destination many describe as “paradise.”

Determined to unwind beside a pool, I traded my heavy winter coat for summer dresses and sunglasses during my visit to Marrakech, Morocco. With quieter tourist numbers, exciting excursions, affordable accommodation and flights available from just £23.99 in March through Easyjet, here’s why you ought to consider a trip yourself.

Why it’s called paradise

When journeying to Morocco, fellow travellers may advise “you must stay in a riad” rather than a hotel to experience authentic Moroccan hospitality. The term riad means “garden” or “paradise” in Arabic.

“Moroccan riads were meant to represent the Muslim vision of paradise,” reported Moroccan Zest. “They were built and decorated by the best craftsmen from all over the Mediterranean area and enriched by Andalusian art to become the Moorish-style palaces we know today.”

My family and I ultimately chose a five-star establishment called El Olivar Palace in Marrakech, which featured private sections functioning as miniature riads, and it truly was paradise. The architecture was utterly stunning, whilst the entire hotel grounds radiated luxury and tranquillity.

This hotel provided an all-inclusive package featuring unlimited buffet dining with breakfast, lunch, dinner, and pudding. Despite being situated in a Muslim nation, the establishment continued to serve alcoholic beverages in the restaurant and at the outdoor bar.

The hotel boasts three swimming pools: two outdoor and one indoor, all surrounded by comfortable sun loungers. In the evenings, entertainment takes place in their indoor lounge, though throughout this quieter season it tends to be more peaceful, with reduced visitor numbers.

Moroccan tradition places great importance on warmth and hospitality. The hotel team were outstanding, incredibly friendly, and helpful. For most of our stay, we hardly needed to do anything as the staff attended to our every need as though we were VIPs.

Not only was our accommodation remarkable, but Morocco itself feels like an exotic haven wherever you venture. Despite the bustling streets of Marrakech, the city brimmed with vibrant culture and stunning views.

My preferred element was strolling past orange and olive trees, when suddenly you’d spot a lorry with a flock of goats or a donkey transporting merchandise. There were countless horses, cats, monkeys and snake charmers simply present in the town centre whilst motorbikes and scooters whizzed through the crowds.

When the sun starts to descend and the golden hour arrives, the country truly shines at its finest. The sky becomes the most magnificent sight to behold as its blue and orange shades blend together.

As the cotton-candy-like Atlas Mountains become increasingly visible, the large, luminous moon begins to appear. Once darkness falls, the sheer number of stars in Marrakech’s sky instils a tranquil serenity unmatched by any other location.

Morocco is also known as Al-Maghrib, translating to ‘the place in the West’. “In its simplest definition, the Arabic word maghrib means sunset,” as per The National News – an apt descriptor for this nation indeed.

Here’s my 72-hour itinerary

Like any holiday, venturing into a new country, it’s best to divide your time between adventurous pursuits, delving into the history and culture, and a day of relaxation. We spent five days in Marrakech, but this itinerary could easily be condensed into 72 hours.

For the first day, or rather the sunniest day of your trip, I’d suggest embarking on the desert excursion. We arranged this through Get Your Guide and paid a mere £15 for four activities spanning the entire day.

This included a visit to an Argan Oil Women’s Cooperative, where we savoured tea and bread with a variety of scrumptious dips (do try the peanut butter, it’s life-changing), followed by a tour and informative talk on the benefits of argan oil.

Next, you’ll embark on a camel ride; this was an utterly surreal and exhilarating experience, akin to riding a towering horse that moves like a seesaw. I’d recommend investing in a headscarf, as the sand can infiltrate your system.

Following that, you’ll team up for an exhilarating quad biking adventure, which proved an absolute thrill and a brilliant opportunity to bond with fellow travellers. Afterwards, you’ll tuck into a sumptuous three-course feast showcasing authentic Moroccan dishes.

To cap off the evening, you’ll witness a captivating, mesmerising fire performance that I promise will stay with you forever. For day two, I’d suggest taking things at a gentler pace. You ought to experience a hammam, an age-old, customary steam bath centred on purification and renewal.

This might sound extraordinary, but you’re instructed to undress entirely and provided with merely a modest cloth to preserve your modesty and a plush bathrobe that remains so toasty it feels freshly tumble-dried each time you slip it on. You’ll subsequently be bathed and thoroughly exfoliated before unwinding in the steam chamber.

Afterwards, you’ll be served tea and treated to a massage. I emerged from this experience feeling utterly refreshed, spotless and at peace.

Most residents indulge in this ritual weekly, and I completely understand why it’s become such a cherished custom. Next, make your way to Henna cafe for a stunning temporary hand design (resist anyone approaching you on the street offering it; visit a legitimate establishment to ensure you receive organic, genuine henna).

Finally, on your closing day, embark on a city tour and discover the captivating history of Marrakech. My personal highlight was the Bahia Palace.

Afterwards, wander through the souks, but stay alert to avoid being overcharged; negotiate firmly if you’re tempted to purchase anything! I spent £20 on a small kitchen bowl, and I’m still annoyed with myself for not insisting on a better price.

Three words: Morocco is paradise

I’ve never felt so calm and revitalised before, and I came back to a somewhat dreary UK looking radiant and recharged. February proved the ideal time to visit as there weren’t excessive numbers of tourists and the climate was favourable.

There were spells of rain as anticipated, but it felt crisp and pleasant after landing on a warm, sunny day. According to BBC News, this week the city is experiencing temperatures of 26°C, and it’s expected to climb higher as days progress.

I’d suggest packing a jacket, as evenings can turn cool, but I predominantly enjoyed wearing modest dresses and sandals.

Reflecting on our trip, my cousin Keisha remarked, “It was paradise, everything about it felt perfect, even the rain. Being there felt surreal and beautiful. Definitely worth another visit in the future.”

Torrential downpours cause deadly mudslides in southern Peru, while more than 300 districts across the country declare states of emergency.

Peruvian authorities say they have recovered the bodies of a father and son who died in a mudslide triggered by heavy rains, which have battered the country’s southern regions of Ica and Arequipa, affecting an estimated 5,500 homes and forcing many people to evacuate.

Authorities in Arequipa have called on the country’s interim president to declare a state of emergency in the region as the governor announced that multiple shelters were being opened to house those fleeing the floods.

Peru’s Council of Ministers said on Monday that more than 700 districts nationwide have been declared in emergency status.

In Cayma, Arequipa, a vehicle was seen semi-buried under mud, and homes teetered on the verge of collapse after flash floods swept away the earth and destroyed roadways, the Reuters news agency reported.

According to the Associated Press news agency, the bodies of a father and son were recovered after being swept away by a landslide.

The recovery came a day after 15 people were killed when a military helicopter crashed while providing rescue services during the flooding.

Rescue teams found the wreckage of the helicopter in the Chala district, officials said. Seven children were among the 11 passengers and four crew members who died, according to the AFP news agency.

Torrential downpours have caused widespread damage across southern Peru, affecting about 5,500 homes and forcing many residents to evacuate.

Images shared by Peruvian media showed streets torn up in the affected areas and vehicles buried deep in the mud slides as rescue workers attempted to clear streets using mechanical earth movers.

The El Niño Costero (coastal) climate phenomenon has been the cause of the recent weeks of heavy rain in Peru, weather forecasters report, and is expected to strengthen slightly next month, threatening more heavy rain.

While El Niño is a natural cycle that has existed for millennia, scientists increasingly link its severity to climate change. Rising global temperatures provide a warmer “baseline” for the ocean, making it easier for these extreme heating events to reach record-breaking thresholds and increasing the atmosphere’s capacity to hold the moisture that fuels torrential rain and catastrophic flooding.

This beautiful city is considered one of Europe’s sunniest destinations, with direct flights from the UK starting from as little as £20

Britain’s dreary weather has us fantasising about a sunshine-filled break, and there’s one European destination that ranks amongst the warmest spots to visit in March, boasting pleasant 21C temperatures.

At this point in the calendar, it’s tempting to believe we must splash out on a lengthy long-haul journey to some far-flung tropical paradise to soak up scorching heat. However, several mild European locations deliver welcoming sunshine during Britain’s chillier months, including the stunning Spanish city of Seville.

Under three hours from Britain, Andalusia’s capital features delightful narrow lanes adorned with orange trees, magnificent Moorish-influenced architecture and celebrated landmarks that prove just as breathtaking in reality as in photographs. Seville holds the distinction of being amongst Europe’s sunniest cities, blessed with sunshine throughout the year.

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There’s no shortage of activities and attractions during a Seville getaway, though its architecture remains a particular highlight. Among its most renowned is the Alcázar of Seville, the city’s Royal Palace, showcasing Renaissance, Gothic and Baroque influences, which famously appeared in Game of Thrones.

OPINION

Amy Jones

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Another must-see is the Catedral de Sevilla, amongst the world’s largest cathedrals, boasting a royal chapel and the Giralda tower, which provides sweeping vistas across the vibrant city. The Setas de Sevilla, nicknamed the ‘Mushrooms of Seville’, is another eye-catching monument – a massive timber structure featuring a rooftop walkway that’s become a popular spot for visitors hoping to catch Seville’s stunning sunset.

The sun-drenched city also offers Santa Cruz, the historic Jewish quarter characterised by blossom-lined streets and golden buildings, alongside Seville’s celebrated Parque de María Luisa, which runs alongside the peaceful Guadalquivir River. One of the city’s most iconic spots is the renowned Plaza de España, situated within Maria Luisa park, which features a moat crossed by four bridges representing Spain’s ancient kingdoms, plus 52 tiled benches depicting different Spanish provinces.

A visitor who explored Plaza de España last month wrote on TripAdvisor: “This is a beautiful place, the buildings are immense, the history amazing, and the atmosphere is superb. I visited twice on our recent trip once early morning and I was the only person and once on a sunny afternoon with my wife. The difference in feelings was great, but both were unforgettable experiences. A must when visiting Seville.”

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Wandering through this stunning city is effortless, with its iconic architecture and rich heritage seamlessly woven into its lively, acclaimed culture. Visitors can also enjoy authentic Flamenco performances and experience the buzzing nightlife, whilst welcoming eateries serve up Spain’s finest culinary offerings through their famous tapas, and bars pour their distinctive orange wine.

Whilst summer temperatures can be blistering, particularly when sightseeing, a trip during the opening months of the year brings pleasant 21C warmth, making it a perfect winter getaway. What’s more, direct flights from London airports kick off at just £20 – what’s not to love?

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Located on the Atlantic coast, the country has a subtropical climate with distinct dry and rainy seasons, with average high temperatures in March reaching 34C

A breathtaking destination boasting 34C temperatures in March and direct flights from Britain offers travellers 50 miles of spectacular coastline featuring white-sand beaches. Dubbed ‘The Smiling Coast of Africa’, the Republic of The Gambia – or simply The Gambia – is so called after The Gambia River, which forms the core of the country’s geography.

It’s also mainland Africa’s smallest country and is celebrated for its friendly inhabitants. Situated along the Atlantic shoreline, The Gambia enjoys a subtropical climate characterised by distinctive dry and wet seasons.

In the capital, Banjul, average peak temperatures during March climb to 34C, whilst the ocean reaches an agreeable 26C. British holidaymakers travelling to Gambia can select from 17 airlines, according to Booking.com..

TUI operates holiday packages to The Gambia featuring flights from London Gatwick and Manchester Airport to Banjul International Airport, the nation’s capital. The journey from Britain takes approximately six and a half hours.

Despite measuring just 31 miles at its widest point, The Gambia features 50 miles of shoreline blessed with white-sand beaches, with standout locations including the coastal areas of Kotu and Kololi.

Surrounded entirely by the West African state of Senegal, The Gambia’s official language is English and has experienced “long spells of stability” since gaining independence from nearly 150 years of British colonial governance in 1965, according to the BBC.

A haven for nature enthusiasts, The Gambia is home to hippos, chimpanzees, crocodiles, and more than 600 species of birds. The nation also features nine distinct tribes, with the Mandinka forming the largest.

YouTuber Waleed Maoed, who recently visited The Gambia, documented his experience with locals in a video about the nation: “Honestly, it has been a great day in Gambia, home of the Smiling Coast.

“People here are awesome. Very welcoming. I definitely recommend visiting this country. This country is pretty cool.” He noted that despite having travelled to “many places” across Africa, Gambians had proven “super kind”.

The Gambia is a predominantly flat, low-lying strip of land split by the Gambia River, and, in what will come as a relief to those of us who struggle with jet lag, it operates on the same timezone as the UK.

Notable attractions include the River Gambia National Park, Kotu Beach, Kachikally Crocodile Pool, Albert Market and the historical Kunta Kinteh Island (previously called James Island).

Regarding traditional food, white rice accompanied by fiery sauces proves popular, according to The Gambian Experience, with the peanut-based Domoda stew serving as the national dish.

Additional specialities include spiced meat snack afra, meat-and-rice dish benachin, okra stew, palm wine, a bread variety called tapalapa, non-alcoholic wonjo juice, and chicken yassa.

Back in March 2013, Didi Danso penned a piece in the Mirror documenting a journey to The Gambia: “Stepping off the plane, warm air blasted me in the face. Temperatures are usually around 30C – one of the main reasons for its popularity with winter and spring sun-seekers.

“In the airport and beyond, people greeted me with a smiling face. This was so infectious that by the end of each day, my cheeks ached from smiling back.

“My first stop was the beautiful Kombo Beach Hotel in Kotu resort, where a light and airy room with a private balcony offered views of the ocean and beaches.

“Waking up to the sound of the sea was a delightful way to start the day. It convinced me to take a walk on the beautiful Bakau Beach – something I’d recommend to all.”

Met Office names Glenshiel Forest the UK’s wettest place below 200m with 3,778mm of rain a year – but the Scottish beauty spot offers red deer, historic battlefields and breathtaking mountain views

Britain’s wettest location also happens to be one of its most stunning destinations.

It has been a truly miserable winter. Cornwall and County Down recorded their wettest January on record, while Northern Ireland saw its wettest January is 149 years. Across the UK, 26 stations set new monthly records for highest January rainfall. Daily records also fell. Plymouth recorded its wettest January day in 104 years. And February has been no better so far. As of February 9, southern England had seen 72% of its monthly average.

In the midst of such sogginess, the prospect of venturing towards a region notorious for precipitation might not sound particularly appealing. However, in my view, the nation’s rainfall champion deserves a visit regardless of the season.

My initial trip to Glenshiel Forest in Ross and Cromarty, Scotland, occurred when I was four years old, during a family getaway to the neighbouring village of Glenelg. Those familiar with Scotland’s western coastline throughout the year will recognise how weather systems shift with astonishing speed compared to elsewhere in Britain.

Sunshine and azure skies can transform into torrential downpours within moments, sending everyone scrambling for waterproofs.

Glenshiel Forest takes this phenomenon to extraordinary heights. Rainfall batters the foliage and trees lining the nine-mile glen with remarkable intensity, only to abruptly cease as clouds disperse above the surrounding peaks, before resuming their assault once more.

Due to their intensity and frequency, the Met Office has designated Glenshiel Forest as Britain’s dampest location below 200m elevation, recording 3,778mm of precipitation annually. This dwarfs London’s approximately 500ml yearly average, making Glenshiel Forest roughly seven times wetter. It’s also roughly four times wetter than the UK as a whole.

But don’t let that deter you from pulling on your wellies, slipping into some galoshes and paying a visit to the Scottish forest. The area has been largely untouched by human activity, giving it a wonderfully remote and pristine feel. Red deer roam freely among native tree species such as common alder, downy birch, sessile oak and rowan.

History buffs will be captivated by the area’s rich past. “There’s a powerful sense of history in Glen Shiel, with steep mountains rushing upwards from an historic battlefield where British government forces and an alliance of Jacobite and Spanish troops fought in 1719,” notes the Woodland Trust.

“You can also access a mountain path to the Five Sisters of Kintail ‘ a classic ridgewalk with three Munros (mountains over 3000 feet / 914 metres).”

For 15 years, I spent my Easter holidays in the nearby village of Glenelg, which is most easily reached by traversing the stunning 339m tall Ratagan Pass – the only route into the sea-loch side settlement for several months of the year when the iconic Glenelg-Skye turntable ferry isn’t in operation.

The vista from the summit of the Ratagan, gazing down upon Glenshiel’s drenched woodlands in one direction and Glenelg in the other, is utterly unforgettable once witnessed. Few thrills can match cresting the hill after navigating the treacherously narrow, serpentine roads and beholding the village’s whitewashed cottages dotted along a loch’s shore, its waters remarkably azure, set against the backdrop of Skye’s mountains and the landscape beyond.

Perhaps the only thing that surpasses it – and another reason my family kept making pilgrimages to this remote corner of Britain year after year until the bungalow we considered our holiday retreat eventually crumbled into complete disrepair – is the panorama from the Glenelg Inn’s garden. Should you ever venture to the area, savour a pint from the local brewery whilst seated at the Inn’s picnic tables, taking in the spectacular scenery – at least until the heavens open.

For those who’d rather not brave the elements and venture into the sodden outdoors, Sykes Cottages has numerous properties available that are perfect for settling in and shutting out the dreary world beyond.

One particularly appealing option is Silver Birch Lodge, a six-person cottage that can be yours for less than £100 a night. Travel a little further north and you’ll get to the spacious Old Distillery Lodge, which sits in the stunning Caingorns National Park.

As rainy as parts of Scotland can be, they pale in comparison to the world’s soggiest area. Mawsynram is a town unlike any other. Nestled amidst the lush green forests of the Khasi Hills in the far east of India above Bangladesh, it is a beautiful area but an absolutely soaking one. Mawsynram receives about 11,873 mm of rainfall annually, which is close to 11 times more than the 1,109mm that falls on famously sodden Glasgow.

Jyotiprasad Oza is a lifelong resident of the town who makes a living leading groups of curious holidaymakers around with TourHQ. People come from far and wide to experience what life is like in the rainiest place on Earth, with visitors regularly making the trip from the US and UK.

“We get about 10,000 tourists a year. During rainy time people like to visit because it’s very heavy rainfall, especially June to September,” Jyotiprasad told the Mirror just as the rain clouds – somewhat predictably – began to open above him.

The rain in Mawsynram is not like the rain in most places. When it starts sometimes it doesn’t stop for days on end. Often residents will dash inside when the heavens open, only to find that there has been no let up for a week straight. And it isn’t just the duration that makes it stand apart.

In one single June day last decade 1,003mm of rain fell on the town – twice as much as London receives in a single year. The impacts on Mawsynram of such intense rainfall can be quite devastating.

“During the time of heavy rainfall, it is impossible to go outside. We can’t do our daily walk. We are not supposed to go outside during the rainy time. Sometimes children can’t go to school during the rain. It is quite dangerous,” Jyotiprasad explained.

With the highest chance of clear blue skies and balmy temperature during the Easter holidays, this beautiful island is a haven with golden sand beaches and azure waters

A sunny island offering balmy rays of 22C and golden sand beaches could be the ideal destination to jet off to this Easter.

With February half term almost over, thoughts will start turning to the Easter holidays, particularly when a vitamin D fix is in order. One destination that offers ‘near guaranteed sunshine’, alongside its expansive sand beaches, dramatic volcanic landscapes and crystal-clear turquoise waters, is Gran Canaria in the Canary Islands.

In a bid to help travellers book their Easter escape, easyJet collected data to reveal the destinations with the highest chance of blistering rays and clear skies in April. From their research, they found that Gran Canaria would offer a balmy 22C in April and just a mere 5 to 15 per cent chance of rain per day, coming in third place behind Egypt and Cape Verde in the easyJet index.

The beautiful island, off northwestern Africa, is a haven for radiant weather with an average of nine hours of sunshine a day – perfect for days spent by the hotel pool or on the beach! What’s more, one-way direct flights to the sun-soaked island in April start from just £25.99 with easyJet, making an Easter escape even more appealing.

Among its fun-packed waterparks to keep the kids entertained, and desert-style sand dunes for days of exploring, easyJet revealed that the average price of a package holiday to Gran Canaria starts from around £429. There’s also a catalogue of sprawling resorts nestled along the picturesque shores, making it even easier to choose your preferred accommodation.

As the third-largest island of the Canary Islands, Gran Canaria has often been dubbed a ‘miniature continent’ due to its diverse landscapes, with around 60km of pristine sand beaches stretching along its 236km coastline. One of the most popular beaches is Playa de Maspalomas, with its heaps of golden sand dunes.

While it’s a scenic spot that’s certainly worth visiting to marvel at this phenomenon, you can also spend time on the beach with nearby bars and restaurants. One traveller shared on TripAdvisor: “Stunning, unique, and a magical natural place, and with a sea and climate all year round. Spectacular with pleasant places where you can bathe and be relaxed, its coasts, its dunes, beaches and its wonderful people and delicious food, all in general, a visit where I will return safely, always.”

Other notable beaches include Playa de Las Canteras, Playa de Amadores and Playa de Mogan, which has been hailed as a “total hidden gem off the beaten track”. The beautiful beach has often been dubbed a ‘Little Venice’, due to its charming canals connecting the marina to the town, with waterfront restaurants, cafés, and shops also in the area.

Aside from the sprawling beaches, there’s plenty more to explore in Gran Canaria. Including the huge waterpark, Aqualand Maspalomas and Lago Taurito, as well as the Palmitos Park, a garden and zoo, for the kids to enjoy when they’re not splashing around in the sea or building sand castles.

For those looking to delve into local culture, the historic old town of Vegueta (Las Palmas) is worth exploring, with its majestic Santa Ana Cathedral and Casa de Colón. Additionally, there is the traditional town of Teror and the municipality, Arucas, which is famed for its neo-Gothic Church and ancient rum distillery.

Stuart Wright, Customer Director at easyJet holidays, said: “After making it through the dark winter months, we know many of our customers are relying on April’s Easter break to catch up on some much-needed vitamin D.