Days after enjoying the warmest weather of the year so far, Britain is bracing for a sharp return to colder conditions, with temperatures expected to fall into single digits by midweek.
Much of the UK saw pleasant sunshine and highs of around 20°C earlier this week, but forecasters say the mild spell has peaked. From Sunday onwards, temperatures will begin to drop steadily, marking a shift back to more typical early spring conditions.
‘Cold plunge’ expected by midweek
Meteorologists have warned of a noticeable chill setting in by Wednesday, when daytime temperatures for many areas will struggle to rise beyond single digits. Nights are expected to turn significantly colder, with the sharpest drop likely midweek.
Conditions will also turn unsettled, with frequent showers and gusty winds affecting several parts of the country.
Snow possible in northern Scotland
Higher areas of northern Scotland could see snowfall from Wednesday night into Thursday morning. While not unusual for this time of year, the sudden change may feel stark after the recent stretch of warm and sunny weather.
Forecasters noted that snow is most likely over hills, with lower regions mainly experiencing cold rain and strong winds.
Rain, wind to ease but chill to persist
Wet and windy conditions are expected to affect northern areas early in the week, while other parts may see fog clearing to give way to bright spells. Rain will gradually move southeastwards before clearer but colder conditions set in.
Later in the week, winds and rain are likely to ease, but temperatures are expected to remain on the cooler side, with a risk of overnight frost in some regions.
Overall, the UK is heading into a markedly cooler phase, offering a sharp contrast to the unseasonably warm days seen just days earlier.
