Just as the UK recently experienced its hottest day of the year, a surprising weather change is on the horizon. The country is set for a sharp drop in temperatures, overnight frosts and even unexpected snowfalls.
Today's Weather Conditions at a Glance
This Monday, the high-pressure system is positioned to the north-west of the UK. Consequently, there will be slight to moderate winds in most parts of the country. However, a warm front will bring cloudy skies and sporadic light rain and drizzle as it moves southwards.
The south-east of England is likely to enjoy a few rays of sunshine in the early hours before the cloud cover thickens. Scots and Northern Ireland will be enjoying a bright afternoon thanks to clear spells of sunshine.
Daytime temperatures are likely to be higher than usual in the sunshine, with 16°C in the north and 14°C in Scotland. In contrast, the south will be considerably colder under cloud cover, with temperatures expected to fall to just 10°C, well below the seasonal average.
Overnight Weather
Sporadic cloud and light rain will continue to dominate central and eastern England overnight. In the north and west, the skies will be clear and temperatures will fall rapidly, with lows of 4°C.
Looking ahead to the weekend, there could be significant changes, with the development of an area of low pressure in the south-west which could affect the UK with heavy rain and strong winds. However, the forecasts are highly uncertain.
Heading outside this afternoon?
For many areas it will be rather cloudy and damp 🌧️, but there will be some brightness 🌤️ especially across parts Scotland
Under the cloud and rain it will be feeling chilly for late April pic.twitter.com/zmBlRimmBt
— Met Office (@metoffice) April 22, 2024
Frost, Snow and Lower Temperatures this Week
Tuesday will start on a cool note in the north. However, the mist clears as the day progresses, brightening Scotland, Northern Ireland, Wales and the north and west of England. Some of the best sunny spells will be in the west, where temperatures will be warmer.
Meanwhile, the same cold front will bring cloudy skies and light rain or drizzle to the south-east quarter of England. Together with a cold northerly wind, this will make for a cool day. Along the North Sea coast, strong winds will bring more cloud.
Wednesday
On Wednesday, clouds will be more numerous, although there will also be periods of sunshine, especially in the west. Towards the east it will be windy with a risk of showers, which should also develop inland. In some cases, these showers could even be wintry on the hills.
Thursday
By Thursday, it will be largely cloudy with a threat of showers, at times potentially wintry, over the Scottish hills. A low-pressure system will arrive from the west at the end of the day, bringing showers to the west and south. Temperatures will remain cooler than average.
Friday
Friday will be cloudy and rainy over England and Wales, with sunny spells and showers in the north. Periods of rain of longer duration will move northwards over the weekend, at times heavy, but with the arrival of milder air.
Weekend Uncertainties
Looking ahead to the weekend, there could be significant weather changes, with the development of an area of low pressure in the south-west which could affect the UK with heavy rain and strong winds. However, the forecasts are highly uncertain.