Met Office Issues Snow Warning for UK This Weekend
The Met Office has announced that snow could blanket parts of the United Kingdom this weekend, marking a stark contrast to the warm and sunny conditions expected on Saturday. This forecast comes as many regions prepare for temperatures climbing into the mid-to-high teens, with high pressure dominating the early part of the period.
Warm Saturday Ahead of Colder Shift
On Saturday, cities across the UK are set to enjoy unseasonably warm weather. Manchester and Edinburgh are forecast to reach highs of 16C and 15C respectively, while Bristol and London will see temperatures of 15C and 14C over the weekend. Interestingly, this warmth will outshine typically sun-drenched southern European destinations like Athens and Madrid, which are predicted to experience cooler highs of 12C and 13C with cloudier skies on Saturday.
However, the Met Office warns that this pleasant interlude will be short-lived. From Sunday onwards, a band of cloud and patchy rain will push southeast across the country, followed by sunny spells and scattered showers in northern areas. Some of these showers are likely to turn wintry, with snow expected over northern hills.
Expert Insights and Extended Forecast
Met Office Chief Forecaster Steve Willington commented on the changing conditions, stating, "While the early part of the period brings warm sunshine for many, it’s not unusual to see colder spells and even some wintry showers in March. As we head into next week, a shift to a cooler north‑westerly flow will bring a drop in temperature and more unsettled weather, including some hill snow in the north and brisk winds at times. This pattern is entirely typical for the time of year."
BBC Weather supports this outlook, noting that Sunday will bring cloudy and breezy conditions in the north, with light rain clearing and showers developing later. The south will start with bright spells and areas of low cloud or fog before turning cloudier as the day progresses.
Unsettled Weather Pattern to Continue
Looking ahead to early next week, a more mobile Atlantic pattern is anticipated, bringing rain to northern and western regions on Monday and Tuesday. This precipitation may occasionally turn to snow over the Scottish mountains, accompanied by stronger winds and potential coastal gales in the north.
By Wednesday, a cooler and more unstable north-to-northwesterly flow will set in, leading to frequent showers. Some of these showers could be heavy and wintry over higher ground, with snow possibly reaching lower levels in the north later in the day. Temperatures are expected to hover near or slightly below average during this period.
Towards the end of the week, higher pressure is forecast to build from the west, which should reduce shower activity and ease winds. Despite this, temperatures are likely to remain on the cooler side, with some overnight frost possible, underscoring the unpredictable nature of spring weather in the UK.
