The UK is set for an ice-cold weather this weekend as it prepares for a drop in temperatures, with possible snow flurries in some parts of the country. Current forecasts predict unstable weather conditions throughout the weekend, with temperatures as low as -4°C.
The Met Office forecast suggests a band of thicker cloud and rain showers will move slowly northwards across the southern regions. Coastal areas could see showers, with clearer spells inland, allowing for rural frosts in northern areas overnight on Friday into Saturday.
Low pressure will begin to move into southern areas Friday afternoon, bringing the potential for cloudier skies and some rain showers later in the day. Temperatures will rise in milder air moving south but rain chances will increase through the afternoon.
Temperatures are expected to drop to -4°C in Northern Ireland and Scotland. This is unusually cold for this time of year, and there is a risk of frost in the north and west.
Afternoon and Weekend Weather Forecast
After a fine start to the day, the clouds are set to move in and the likelihood of showers increases as the afternoon progresses. A change in the weather pattern is expected in the afternoon.
Showers are likely to spread inland over the northern regions, accompanied by a significant increase in cloud cover. However, those regions enjoying glorious sunshine can still expect fairly pleasant conditions.
Driving conditions in the south-west could be difficult in the afternoon due to the appearance of heavy showers. Motorists should be careful, as the roads may become slippery and visibility reduced.
Below-average temperatures are expected to persist, particularly in areas affected by rain and cloud cover. Anyone caught up in periods of rain may find conditions less than ideal.
- Evening and Overnight Conditions
By the evening, the cloud cover should dissipate, giving way to drier, clearer skies overnight. However, frost is likely to develop in parts of Scotland and Northern Ireland, with temperatures down to 4°C.
Remaining cloudy across Wales and much of central and southern England this evening, with outbreaks of heavy, showery rain in the south pushing northwards ☔
Showers easing in the north with clear spells into the night allowing temperatures to fall ✨ pic.twitter.com/g4kbFDmlL0
— Met Office (@metoffice) April 26, 2024
- Saturday Forecast
On Saturday morning, chilly temperatures are expected to continue, with lows of up to -4°C in Northern Ireland and Scotland. There is therefore a risk of frost in the north and west.
England could still benefit from a fresh easterly breeze from the North Sea, but the skies should clear as the frontal band moves away from the south-east of England.
In the afternoon, we should be a little warmer with the arrival of milder air. There is, however, a risk of very heavy showers, particularly on the south coast.
By evening, most areas should remain dry, but there could be some persistent rain in the central regions, particularly in the south-east.
- Sunday
As the low-pressure system develops over northern France, north-easterly to northerly winds are set to strengthen over central and south-western England and Wales. This could result in more widespread heavy rain in many areas on Sunday.
Drivers and outdoor enthusiasts will need to be prepared for potentially difficult weather conditions throughout the day.