Winter Weather Returns to UK with Snow and Gales This Week

The UK will experience a return to colder temperatures this week, with snow possible in northern regions and gales expected over Scotland during the weekend. Variable weather is likely to continue throughout March.

Colder Temperatures and Snow Expected

Following a brief period of spring-like warmth across the UK, temperatures are set to fall back into single digits this week, with some areas experiencing snow.

While March typically brings noticeably warmer sunshine, the air over the far northern Atlantic remains cold. Several weather fronts will gradually transport this colder air from the north-west across the UK.

As the week progresses, daytime temperatures will decline and by Friday may struggle to reach double figures, indicating that winter is still receding and that mild, sunny spring days remain limited.

Dips in the jet stream will allow Arctic air to spread across the UK by the end of the week.

A weather map of Europe indicating a jet stream and weather fronts moving across the UK from the Atlantic — Image caption, Dips in the jet stream will allow Arctic air to spread across the UK by the end of the week

This shift is driven by an intensifying jet stream, which will deliver a series of weather fronts accompanied by increasingly wet conditions. There is even the possibility of wintry showers towards the end of the week.

The abundant mist and fog present in many areas will be cleared by strong winds arriving from the Atlantic. Although it is expected to be somewhat too windy for widespread overnight frosts, some susceptible locations may experience temperatures dropping to freezing when skies clear between weather fronts.

Will it snow?

Stronger winds will bring wintry showers of sleet and snow over high ground in northern parts of the UK, with the potential for snow to accumulate on some hills and mountains.

Fast-moving hail showers could occur almost anywhere, and brief flurries of wet snow are possible even in southern regions. However, snow is unlikely to settle in the south.

Two lambs can be seen laying on the ground whilst there is a flurry of snow

Gales over Scotland

During the weekend, a potentially severe low-pressure system may move across the country, with gales most likely affecting Scotland.

Many areas of the UK are expected to experience gusts between 40 and 50 mph, while more exposed parts of the north-west could see winds reaching 60 mph or higher.

It will feel cold, prompting many to wear thick coats, hats, and gloves.

The positive aspect is that there will be breaks between successive weather systems, featuring bright sunshine and crisper conditions.

Rain and gales are likely on Saturday night, with the prospect of wintry showers later on Sunday.

A weather map of the UK and north-west Europe indicating a low pressure system with isobars and spells of rain moving across the UK — Image caption, Rain and gales are likely on Saturday night with the prospect of wintry showers later in the day on Sunday

Duration of the colder weather

Some computer models indicate that after the weekend, high pressure may return, bringing drier conditions. Others suggest unsettled and potentially colder weather may persist for a longer period.

Regardless, it is still only March, and several weeks of variable weather are expected, alternating between milder and colder spells, which is typical for this time of year.