Spring is finally making its presence felt across Britain, with temperatures forecast to reach a balmy 16 degrees Celsius this weekend, marking a decisive break from the chilly conditions that have dominated the start of 2026. This shift brings the hottest temperature of the year so far, particularly in parts of southern England, where mercury levels are expected to peak tomorrow.
Persistent Rain and Flood Risks
Despite the warmer weather, Britons should not pack away their umbrellas just yet. The nation has endured 51 consecutive days of rain since the beginning of 2026, and this trend shows no sign of abating. Heavy downpours are predicted for some regions, with over 50 flood warnings currently in place for areas in the southwest of England, including Salisbury, Gloucester, and Dorchester.
Regional Variations in Weather Patterns
Northern Ireland and western Scotland are set to bear the brunt of the wet weather in the coming days, due to Atlantic systems that will produce damp and windy conditions. In contrast, southern England may enjoy milder temperatures, but the overall picture remains unsettled.
Last month was one of the five wettest Januarys since 1890 for southern England, highlighting the prolonged period of rainfall. Low-pressure systems approaching the UK and Ireland are bringing warmth from Spain and Portugal, but this does not signal a return to sunny skies. As a result, experts caution against premature optimism.
Expert Warnings and Recent Storms
Sky News' weather producer Jo Wheeler advised Brits not to be lulled into believing spring has arrived early. She stated, 'We can expect temperatures in the low to mid-teens over the weekend and into the coming week, which isn't bad for late February. Don't be fooled! There's still the potential for temperatures to return to average values; maybe even lower than average. Gardeners be warned!'
Earlier this week, Britain faced more rainy weather and bouts of snow thanks to Storm Pedro. This weather system, named by Meteo France, brought torrential rain on Wednesday and Thursday. Some parts of the south coast, including Dartmoor and Devon, saw as much as 50mm of rainfall. Other areas in the region experienced up to 30mm, while the Met Office forecasted 10-20mm of rain more widely across the country.
Looking Ahead
While the weekend offers a glimpse of spring with warmer temperatures, the persistent rain and flood warnings serve as a reminder that winter's grip has not fully loosened. Residents are urged to stay informed about local weather updates and take necessary precautions, especially in flood-prone areas.
