The UK is set for a period of unsettled weather this week, characterised by widespread rain and strong winds, before a significant drop in temperatures takes hold. The Met Office has advised the public to prepare for changeable conditions, with the cooler air expected to arrive towards the weekend.
Across England, many regions can expect to see showers and some heavier bursts of rain, particularly in western and northern areas. Southern and eastern England may experience drier spells but will still contend with blustery conditions. Maximum temperatures are likely to hover around 14-17°C during the earlier part of the week, before falling noticeably.
Scotland and Northern Ireland are forecast to bear the brunt of the wet and windy weather, with persistent rain and strong gusts potentially reaching 40-50 mph in exposed coastal areas. These conditions could lead to difficult driving conditions and disruption to outdoor plans. Temperatures in these regions will struggle to rise above 10-13°C for much of the week, feeling colder with the wind chill.
Wales is also anticipated to experience a similar pattern, with frequent rain and blustery winds, especially over higher ground and along the coast. Drivers should exercise caution due to potential surface water and reduced visibility. Midweek temperatures are expected to be in the range of 12-15°C before the cooler air mass arrives.
As the week progresses, a shift in the weather pattern will bring a more widespread drop in temperatures across the entire UK. By Friday and into the weekend, many areas could see daytime highs struggling to reach double figures, with overnight frosts becoming a possibility in some rural locations. The Met Office advises checking local forecasts regularly for the most up-to-date information and any specific warnings.
Practical safety advice includes securing loose outdoor items, exercising caution when travelling, especially in high winds and heavy rain, and dressing appropriately for the cooler conditions. Pedestrians and cyclists should be aware of slippery surfaces and reduced visibility.
Source: Met Office