Janice R. Andrews
Britain is set to experience a dramatic shift in weather next week, with temperatures soaring to levels comparable to Rome and Madrid. After enduring over a week of grey skies, frosty nights, and wintry sleet or snow showers, the UK is poised for a Mediterranean-style warm spell.
By Thursday and Friday, parts of South East England could see temperatures reach 15°C (59°F) or 16°C (61°F), slightly warmer than Rome and on par with Madrid. This marks a stark contrast to recent conditions, which included overnight frosts and daytime temperatures struggling to rise above single digits. Snow even fell as far south as East Anglia last weekend.
The change is driven by milder, wetter air moving in from the Atlantic, bringing gales and heavy rain alongside the warmer temperatures. Western hills could see up to four inches (10cm) of rain, with 75-100mm expected in some areas from Wednesday to Friday. Despite the rain, sunny spells and blustery showers are forecast for the weekend, offering a more spring-like feel.
Met Office Deputy Chief Meteorologist Tony Wisson explained, “Milder but unsettled conditions are moving in from the Atlantic later this week. While it will be wetter, temperatures could reach 16°C, making it feel much more like spring.” This shift is a welcome change after days of ‘anticyclonic gloom,’ where high pressure trapped clouds over the UK, leaving many areas without sunshine for over a week.
The upcoming warmth is a significant departure from February’s average temperatures, which typically hover around 9°C (48°F) in southern England. Meteorologist Jonathan Vautrey noted this “noticeable shift” as a break from the below-average temperatures of the past fortnight.
As Britain prepares to swap frost for warmth, residents can look forward to a taste of spring—albeit with a side of rain and wind.
