Arctic Air and Unsettled Weather to Sweep Across UK

The Met Office has forecasted that a significant chill is expected to sweep across the UK, bringing cooler temperatures and potential overnight frost. This weather pattern is anticipated to follow a period of wet and unsettled weather influenced by the remnants of Hurricane Kirk.

According to the Met Office, the aftermath of Hurricane Kirk – although no longer at hurricane strength – will manifest as a “moderately deep low pressure system.” This system will lead to wet and windy conditions spread throughout the UK, particularly affecting the southern regions initially before moving northwards.

The Met Office’s long-range forecast from October 8 to October 17 highlights an “unsettled” weather period, characterized by sessions of wind and rain linked to low-pressure areas. The south is expected to experience the most intense rainfall, which will eventually extend across the UK.

As temperatures drop, parts of the country, especially the mountainous regions of Scotland, such as the Highlands, could witness some snow. The colder weather is predicted to affect Scotland and Northern Ireland first, subsequently moving southwards following the clearance of ex-Kirk.

Forecasts suggest a temporary respite with a “more settled interlude” possible, but further spells of wind and rain are likely to return, especially in southern areas. The Met Office anticipates that these conditions will continue until the end of the period.

Looking further into October, from October 18 to November 1, the continuation of low-pressure systems from the Atlantic is expected. This pattern will contribute to wet and windy weather across England and Wales, while Scotland and Northern Ireland may encounter more prolonged dry spells.

Temperatures are expected to vary, remaining close to average in southern regions, while northern and northwestern areas might experience below-average temperatures. The eventual extension of higher pressure from the north could lead to drier conditions later in the month, accompanied by a higher risk of fog and frost overnight.

In parts of Greater Manchester, temperatures are projected to remain in the mid-teens early in the week, with potential lows of 7°C by Thursday.

These developments come as a blast of Arctic air is set to descend upon the UK, further contributing to the cold spell. The Met Office advises of potential snow on Scotland’s higher mountains and warns of temperatures falling near freezing in some northern areas, such as North Yorkshire and Burnley.

Met Office meteorologist Alex Deakin commented on the incoming weather patterns, stating: “There is an area of low pressure generating the showers and pushing northwards, with a band of thick cloud over northern England, Northern Ireland, and southern Scotland.”

The temperature drop will be noticeable across the UK as the cold front moves south. Areas like Manchester and Leeds might see temperatures around 5°C, while Liverpool could be slightly warmer at 6°C.

The weather is anticipated to turn drier and brighter by Friday and Saturday, although the chilly conditions are expected to persist, leading to rural frost in certain areas.

Overall, unsettled weather is likely to continue into late October, driven by Atlantic low-pressure systems, with wetter conditions forecasted mainly for England and Wales. Meanwhile, Scotland and Northern Ireland might enjoy longer drier spells.