Following a period of unseasonably warm temperatures, Britons are now facing a sharp shift in conditions as the Met Office has issued warnings for thunderstorms across the country.
Yesterday saw record-breaking heat, with Northolt, northwest London, reaching 24C – marking the highest temperature of the year thus far. However, this pleasant spell is fleeting.
Starting Monday, April 14th, a series of rain showers are expected to move eastward across the UK, accompanied by a “risk of thunder.” While southeastern regions may experience slightly drier and warmer conditions, most areas will feel the change.
Here’s what you can expect:
- Monday: Rain showers with potential thunderstorms.
- Overnight: Chilly temperatures.
- Daytime Temperatures: Expected to be within the average range for this time of year.
From Thursday onward, the weather will become increasingly variable due to low-pressure systems. The Met Office has cautioned that “much more mixed weather conditions” are on their way, bringing with them the possibility of rain showers, along with:
- Heavy rainfall at times
- A risk of hail
- Thunderstorms
- Gusty winds
While periods of sunshine are possible, they will likely be interspersed with cloud cover.
Looking further ahead, the forecast indicates:
“These unsettled, changeable conditions are most likely during the first half of this period. Later, there is a chance that more settled, drier but perhaps cooler weather could develop across many parts of the UK.”
Despite the shift towards cooler temperatures, those with hay fever will find little respite as pollen levels are predicted to surge nationwide.
Pollen forecasts indicate:
- London and southeastern England: “Very high” pollen levels until Tuesday.
- Rest of the UK: “High” pollen levels.
Meteorologist Honor Criswick explained, “High pressure is going to sink southwards, allowing something a bit more unsettled to move into the north and then push its way southeast.” She added that “There is a chance we could see some rain and some showers and possibly some thunder, as well. It’s later Saturday into Sunday that we start to see more and more of this unsettled weather, so Sunday is going to be more of an unsettled day for many compared to what we have seen recently.”
Meteorologist Jim Dale concurred: “The breakdown in the fine weather is likely at the weekend, and from Sunday we will see something more unsettled and wet.”
