Arctic air is sweeping across the United Kingdom, bringing cooler than average temperatures and heavy rain in some areas, according to the Met Office. Overnight frosts could be observed in certain locations as the country experiences a dip in temperatures.
Temperature Drop Across the UK
Colder air from further north is moving over the UK over the next few days, with temperatures expected to be 2C or 3C colder than the average maximums for May. The Met Office has noted that this weather pattern is not unusual for spring and should not pose significant challenges.
Met Office spokesman Grahame Madge explained: "The current weather pattern is allowing for a movement of colder air from further north to sweep down across the UK over the next few days. This is not unusual in spring and it should not present any particular challenges."
He added: "The most noticeable feature for many is that temperatures will appear below average, possibly feeling even colder in the brisk northerly breeze. Overnight some locations may experience relatively late in the season overnight frosts, while there is a chance that the Scottish mountains could experience wintry showers. But generally these conditions won't be impactful and there is no current need to issue weather warnings."
Daily Forecast Breakdown
On Monday, a cold front is moving south across Northern Ireland and the Midlands, bringing rain that could be heavy in some areas. Maximum temperatures in the south are expected to reach 15C or 16C. By the evening, some sunshine is expected.
Tuesday will bring clearer spells and showers, with maximum temperatures of about 16C or 17C. On Wednesday, blustery showers could become widespread and heavy, particularly in the north of the UK, with the potential for coastal gales. Some areas may see 20-30mm of rain, along with hail and thunder, and maximum temperatures of 14C are forecast.
The Met Office is monitoring Thursday, which could bring changeable weather, but it is likely to be a showery day. Both Thursday and Friday are expected to have mixed conditions, with temperatures on Thursday similar to Wednesday and Friday possibly increasing by a degree.
Advice for Gardeners
Joe Whitehead, chairman of the Professional Gardeners' Guild, noted that May is the trickiest month for gardeners. He advised: "Look at the weather every day so you've got an idea of what's coming up. Anything tender, bring them in to the garage, to the porch, or cover them with something. In your allotment, think about your potatoes coming through the ground."
Mr Whitehead, based in east England, expressed relief at the forecast of showers, as he is desperate for rain. However, he cautioned gardeners not to overwater plants.
