You might want to keep your winter coats and scarves out for a while yet, because the UK is about to be hit by some serious cold weather. We’re talking teeth chattering, need three blankets at night kind of cold.
Following a few warm days at the end of February, it appeared that spring had arrived early. However, Mother Nature quickly reminded us of the season by bringing back winter for one last icy blast.
Freezing Weather Set to Hit the UK
The Met Office has forecasted a drop in temperatures across Britain in the coming days. Higher pressure and settled conditions are expected, which often results in colder weather. Daytime highs are expected to be 5 to 10 degrees Celsius below average for early March, with nighttime lows potentially dropping close to freezing, particularly in rural areas.
The latest weather maps show rain and showers moving into the UK from the west, with the heaviest rainfall expected in the north-west. However, as the high-pressure system moves in, skies will clear, and any precipitation should move off to the southeast. This will leave much of the country with dry but chilly conditions.
Although there may be some sunshine in a few areas, particularly in the north and east of the country, cloud cover will increase for most as the day progresses. Despite a bright morning, temperatures will not rise significantly, so you will still need your hat and gloves. Showers may occur in some places, but they are expected to be light.
Chilly Weekend Ahead
Weather conditions will vary across the UK this weekend. Although most regions will have dry and sunny weather, the South is expected to have heavier rainfall, especially on Sunday. Temperatures may feel cold, especially in northern and eastern Scotland. Showers are scattered, not only along Western coastal regions but also across the Southeast coast and inland, where mist and fog may obscure visibility.
A Risk of Rain and Cold Evenings
Despite similar temperatures to yesterday, lighter winds will create a more pleasant ambiance in any sunny intervals. However, clear skies will cause temperatures to plummet rapidly once again tonight, leading to another cold evening and a frosty start to Sunday.
Mist and fog may reappear, with the potential for freezing fog in the north. In the early hours of Sunday, a band of rain is expected to approach the Southwest, which may cause icy stretches in areas with wet surfaces.
Scattered showers for most today, with a few sunny spells 🌦️
Some of the showers will be heavy with hail and snow over the highest ground too ❄️
Cloudier across southern counties of England and Wales, with showery rain possible here 🌧️ pic.twitter.com/DjHybASae0
— Met Office (@metoffice) February 24, 2024
Impacts of Cold Weather on Travel, Work, and School
The icy temperatures sweeping across the UK are sure to disrupt daily life.
- Travel
If you plan to travel this weekend, prepare for potential delays and cancellations. Road conditions may be hazardous, especially in the early morning and evening, so give yourself extra time if driving. Public transit could also face issues, with trains and buses running behind schedule or being taken out of service. - Work
Some workplaces may allow employees to work from home during very cold weather to avoid having to commute. If this is an option for you, take advantage of it. Your boss will surely understand. If you need to go to work, make sure to dress in layers and wear appropriate boots, hats, and gloves. Be extremely cautious when walking on icy paths and roads. - School
Schools often close or have delayed openings when temperatures drop well below freezing. Students should monitor announcements from their school to see if any schedules are impacted. E-learning days are also a possibility, where students complete work remotely.
Although the cold weather may cause a few difficulties over the next few days, you can minimise the effects by wrapping up, planning ahead and taking the necessary precautions.
