The Met Office has delivered disappointing news for sun-seekers across the United Kingdom, forecasting a persistent spell of grey, overcast conditions that's set to dominate the skies for much of the coming week.
What is Anticyclonic Gloom?
Meteorologists have identified this phenomenon as 'anticyclonic gloom' - a weather pattern where high pressure systems trap moisture and cloud cover close to the ground, creating consistently dull conditions despite the absence of rain.
According to Met Office spokesman Stephen Dixon, "The general theme is for largely dry conditions for much of the UK, thanks to high pressure, but it will be fairly cloudy across many areas."
Regional Breakdown
England and Wales
Most areas will experience predominantly cloudy skies with limited bright intervals. The southeast might enjoy occasional sunny spells, particularly during Thursday afternoon, but these will be the exception rather than the rule.
Scotland and Northern Ireland
Northern regions will see more changeable conditions, with brighter spells more likely, though still interspersed with significant cloud cover. Some isolated showers cannot be ruled out, especially in northwestern areas.
Weekend Outlook
The disappointing pattern is expected to continue through the weekend, with Saturday potentially bringing the most widespread cloud cover. While temperatures will remain seasonally appropriate, the lack of sunshine will make it feel cooler than the thermometer suggests.
Dixon confirmed that "there's not an awful lot of sunshine on the way for the weekend," dashing hopes of a bright Saturday or Sunday for most Britons.
When Will It End?
The current forecast suggests some potential improvement early next week, with a possibility of the high pressure system shifting to allow for brighter conditions. However, meteorologists remain cautious about predicting exactly when the gloom will lift.
This extended period of anticyclonic gloom is typical for late spring in the UK, where high pressure systems often bring stability at the expense of sunshine.
