A sharp drop in temperatures is expected across the UK later this week, with the potential for snow, ice, and hazardous weather conditions, according to the Met Office. A cold snap is set to bring freezing temperatures, while parts of Scotland are already experiencing severe weather with warnings for heavy rain and coastal gales.
A Cold Snap on the Horizon
The UK’s weather will take a turn for the colder this weekend, as high pressure moves in, bringing plummeting temperatures and wintry conditions. Met Office Chief Meteorologist Frank Saunders advised that although the coming week may start off relatively mild, temperatures will likely dip by the weekend, increasing the risk of snow and ice across the country.
“High-pressure is set to move in, bringing easterly winds, low temperatures, and an increasing risk of wintry hazards,” said Saunders.
Scotland’s Weather Warnings
Before the freeze arrives, Scotland is already experiencing severe weather. The Met Office has issued a Yellow Weather Warning for rain in Dumfries & Galloway, where persistent rainfall and coastal gales could create dangerous conditions, particularly for those near the coast.
On Tuesday night, wintry showers are expected over higher ground in Scotland, which could lead to icy surfaces, particularly on elevated roads and paths as temperatures continue to fall.
What to Expect in the Coming Days
- Monday & Tuesday: England and Wales will experience mostly dry conditions with some sunny spells. However, Scotland and Northern Ireland will see strong winds and heavy rain.
- Midweek: A band of rain and strong winds will move from northwestern Wales and England on Monday night, reaching eastern England by Tuesday evening, although the weather will weaken as it moves across the country.
- End of the Week: Temperatures are expected to fall below average as high pressure settles over Scandinavia, bringing cold easterly winds. The weekend could see frost, fog, and snow, along with an increasing risk of icy conditions.
As temperatures plummet, the risk of snow and ice will increase, potentially leading to travel disruptions and hazardous conditions across much of the UK, particularly in northern and highland regions.
