The UK is preparing for a weekend of changeable weather, according to the latest forecast from the Met Office. Saturday is set to begin with crisp, bright conditions for many, particularly across England and Wales, though a distinct chill will be in the air. As the weekend progresses into Sunday, a shift towards cloudier skies and milder temperatures is anticipated, with some patchy rain moving in from the west.
On Saturday, much of England and Wales can expect a cold but sunny start to the day. Frost is likely in rural areas overnight and into the early morning, with temperatures struggling to rise much beyond 7-9°C in the south, and potentially lower further north. Scotland and Northern Ireland may see more cloud cover, with a chance of some light showers, particularly in western coastal regions. Wind speeds are generally expected to be light to moderate, typically around 5-10 mph, making the chill more pronounced in exposed areas.
As Saturday afternoon progresses, high pressure will begin to recede, allowing a new weather front to approach from the Atlantic. This will herald the change for Sunday, which is forecast to be significantly cloudier across most of the UK. Patchy light rain or drizzle is expected to spread eastwards, primarily affecting western parts of England, Wales, and Northern Ireland through the morning, before extending further east later in the day.
Despite the increase in cloud and precipitation, Sunday will feel milder for many. Temperatures are predicted to reach double figures in some southern and western areas, potentially peaking at 11-12°C, a noticeable increase from Saturday's chill. Scotland will also see temperatures rise, albeit remaining in single figures for many inland areas. Gusts of wind may pick up slightly, reaching 15-20 mph in coastal areas, particularly in the west, accompanying the incoming frontal system.
Looking ahead into the start of next week, the Met Office indicates that this milder, cloudier weather with intermittent rain is likely to persist for a few days. The shift marks a departure from the colder, clearer conditions experienced at the end of this week, ushering in a more unsettled pattern typical of autumn.
Motorists and those planning outdoor activities should be mindful of potential slippery conditions due to frost on Saturday morning, and reduced visibility due to cloud and drizzle on Sunday. Layered clothing is advisable given the temperature fluctuations over the weekend.
Source: Met Office