UK Weather: Wintry Showers Return After Warmest Day of Year

UK Weather: Brace Yourselves – Wintry Showers and Cold Temperatures Return After Warmest Day of the Year

Following a brief spell of unseasonably warm weather, the UK is set to experience a sharp drop in temperatures, with wintry showers expected to return, particularly in northern and northeastern areas. This change comes after many regions enjoyed the warmest day of the year, with temperatures reaching as high as 19°C.

Temperature Drop and Wintry Conditions

The Met Office forecasts a significant shift in weather patterns, with temperatures plummeting below average by Tuesday. Rural Scotland could see overnight lows of -4°C. While daytime maximum temperatures across the UK will range between 5°C and 8°C. Wintry showers are “likely,” and while snow accumulations are expected to be mainly in hilly areas, the return of colder conditions will be a stark contrast to the recent warmth.

Polar Vortex Collapse: “Beast from the East” Redux?

The Met Office predicts an 80% chance of a polar vortex collapse by mid-March. This event, driven by sudden stratospheric warming (SSW), could bring heavy snow, ice, and strong winds to the UK, similar to the “Beast from the East” in March 2018. Professor Adam Scaife, head of long-range forecasting at the Met Office, warns that this phenomenon may impact UK weather toward the end of March, though specific effects remain uncertain

Regional Variations and Long-Term Averages

While the north and northeast brace for wintry conditions, other regions may experience milder weather. However, long-term weather averages for March in England suggest daytime maximum temperatures around 10°C, with 14 days of rainfall expected. The transition from warm to cold conditions highlights the unpredictable nature of UK weather in early spring.

What to Expect Next Week

While this weekend is relatively mild, conditions are set to decline into next week. Where temperatures will drop but be relatively dry.