UK set for colder weekend as stormy weather may return next week

The UK is forecast to turn colder this weekend, with daytime temperatures returning to around the October average, before Atlantic weather systems could bring heavy rain and strong winds next week. Forecasters caution that the timing and strength of those systems remain uncertain. [1]

A northerly airflow is expected to lower daytime temperatures to about 10–16C. Most places should have sunny spells, though showers may affect northern and western areas on Friday and reach south-east England over the weekend. [1]

Clear skies and light winds overnight could bring patchy fog and frost inland. Temperatures may fall below freezing in parts of rural Scotland, Northern Ireland and northern England. Some areas could see their coldest spell of autumn so far, although the forecast temperatures are not unusual for the season. [1]

The cooler spell follows unseasonably warm weather earlier in the week: Holbeach in Lincolnshire reached 22.8C on Thursday, while Heathrow and Northolt recorded 22.7C. [1]

High pressure is expected to retreat next week, allowing Atlantic low-pressure systems to bring rain, wind and milder air. Some could deepen enough to produce very wet and windy conditions, with stormy weather possible at times. The rain could benefit drought-hit parts of England and Wales, particularly the south and south-west, but the forecast may change as the systems’ paths and strength become clearer. [1]