The United Kingdom is bracing for a dramatic shift in weather patterns following a recent mini-heatwave that saw temperatures soar to 23°C. As the country prepares for this abrupt transition, forecasts indicate a potential snowstorm impacting multiple regions, particularly around April 14.
Leading meteorological agency WXCharts has highlighted notable areas at risk of heavy snow, with maps showing significant coverage in purple and white, indicating the likelihood of snowfall. Cities such as Inverness, Glasgow, Aberdeen, Wick, Edinburgh, and Belfast could be among those affected by the adverse weather conditions.
James Madden from Exacta Weather provided insights regarding the changing weather dynamics, stating, "Largely settled and sunny for many parts for a prolonged period + cold and snow to return around mid-month." He noted that the current high-pressure system dominating the UK’s weather will maintain a period of settled conditions, allowing much of the country to experience plenty of sunshine in the upcoming week. However, Madden cautioned that these unseasonably warm temperatures could be short-lived.
He elaborated, "This could also bring temperatures to and around the 20°C mark in parts of southern England by the end of the working week and prior to some slightly cooler and cloudier weather by the upcoming weekend in parts further south." Northern regions may continue to enjoy the sunny weather for several days longer, with temperatures possibly reaching the high teens or near 20°C in optimal sunshine over the next week to ten days.
As the country enjoys these relatively warm conditions, Madden indicated that they will soon give way to an unexpected wintry blast. He projected "some quite decent snow prospects for quite late in the season and April from in and around mid to late April, possibly a little earlier."
Further supporting this forecast, the Met Office provided an outlook beginning April 8, suggesting that high pressure will continue to dominate, resulting in largely settled conditions. It noted, "This should result in lengthy spells of dry and bright weather." However, variability in weather conditions could occur, particularly along the southwest of the UK, where breezy conditions are expected.
The Met Office also highlighted the probability of overnight frosts on clear nights as well as the possibility of fog or low cloud, especially near the eastern coast. As mid-April approaches, the potential for unsettled weather looms, with rain or showers predicted to sweep in from the west, marking a significant shift from the warmth experienced in the preceding days.
As the UK prepares for this unpredictable weather transition, residents are advised to remain vigilant and ready for the shifts that April has in store.
Source: Noah Wire Services