Britons are bracing for a weather shift that may usher in snowfall over the upcoming weekend, as indicated by weather forecasts.
Following a prolonged period of warm and dry weather, September began with unsettled conditions that are predicted to persist in the coming days. Recent stormy weather brought heavy rain and gusts reaching up to 74mph on the Isle of Wight. More turbulent weather is on the horizon, with the potential for snow flurries accompanying a chilling northerly wind.
BBC weather forecaster Elizabeth Rizzini highlighted two significant aspects of the upcoming weather patterns. She emphasized the substantial rainfall expected in parts of northwest England and North Wales, with projections ranging from 75mm to 100mm over the weekend. This heightened precipitation could lead to localized flooding due to the already wet conditions this month. Additionally, she pointed out the notable temperature contrast, with Friday anticipated to be warm, possibly reaching the mid-20Cs, before a sharp drop to near 0C by early Sunday.
Weather maps depict a low-pressure system over the country on Saturday, with snow flurries anticipated in southern Scotland and the northeast of England overnight into Sunday. The sudden temperature fluctuations are expected to be stark, transitioning from warmth on Friday to near-freezing conditions by Sunday morning.
Ms. Rizzini warned of increasing winds and heavy rain, particularly affecting southwest England, south Wales, northwest England, and north Wales as low pressure intensifies on Saturday. As the low pressure shifts northwards, colder air will descend, ushering in a significant drop in temperatures.
The Met Office issued a yellow warning for rain from Saturday morning to early Sunday covering parts of northern England, Scotland, and Wales, along with a separate alert for Northern Ireland. The agency also hinted at the possibility of snow on the highest mountain peaks by the weekend’s end as cooler air masses replace recent warmth.
Met Office Deputy Chief Meteorologist Tom Crabtree cautioned about the expected heavy rainfall during the weekend, with the potential for strong gusty winds and thunder, posing a risk of disruption. Southwest England, western Wales, and parts of the northeast are likely to experience wind speeds exceeding 55 miles per hour, prompting close monitoring of the evolving situation and possible additional warnings.
As the weather scenario evolves, staying informed through updated forecasts is crucial to navigating the upcoming weather challenges effectively.