Scorcher on the way

Alyssa Mackie, 5, from Auckland enjoys playing in the Tom Parker Fountain on Marine Parade, Napier, yesterday. Photo / Duncan Brown

The summer season is set to return in full swing to the Bay this weekend, with sweltering temperatures forecast for the region.

Friday is set to hit a scorching 31C after a northerly change which should bring a spate of sunshine and warm weather.

MetService meteorologist Hannah Moes said the high temperatures would occur as a result of the Fohn Effect - when air mass becomes dry and warm as it passes over the ranges.

Today's high was predicted to be a more mild 21C, after some morning cloud breaks, with a chance of a late shower.

The balmy weather is forecast to continue through the weekend.

Saturday will be another cracker with a 26C high and light sea breezes.

Ms Moes said it was uncertain how Sunday would pan out.

"There is a trough coming in from the west so there may be some scattered showers late in the evening."

It would still be hot, however, with 27C predicted.