Bank holiday due to end with high winds and heavy rain
WALES was braced for 65mph winds and heavy rain hitting parts of the nation today – with a further warning to expect lower-than-average May temperatures this week and the possibility of snow on higher ground.
A Met Office ‘yellow’ weather warning for wind was upgraded yesterday morning to include a larger area.
The warning stated: “A vigorous area of low pressure is likely to cross northern England on Monday.
“Strong winds are expected to the south of the low centre, affecting Wales and western England during Monday afternoon.
“Gusts are likely to widely reach 40 to 50mph inland, and as high as 60 to 65mph around some coasts of southern England and South Wales.
“The winds should gradually ease through Tuesday morning. The strong winds will be accompanied by some heavy rain at times.”
Welsh weather forecaster Derek Brockway said: “It’s not going feel much like May next week!
“Low pressure will track across the UK on Monday bringing rain and strong to gale force winds. Followed by sunny intervals and showers with snow on the hills and mountains.
“Cold enough later in the week for a touch of frost overnight.”
Met Office forecaster Ben Rich says that the bad weather is being caused by the area of low pressure coming in from the Atlantic.
He said: “It is the first time we have seen one of these in the UK for quite some time and it will be the wettest weather we have had for quite some time.
“Strong winds as well, particularly gusty on western coasts.
“We could see gales developing and temperatures are really disappointing for this time of year.
“Monday is not a great day and the rain will clear away and behind it we get back into some chilly air.”
The outlook for tomorrow to Thursday forecasts windy conditions remaining in place tomorrow, with frequent showers.
This will be followed by sunshine and fewer showers through Wednesday and Thursday, with lighter winds.
It is expected to be cold throughout, with overnight frosts and showers falling as snow over hills.