Biting northerly wind blows in a chilly Hallowe’en
THERE has been talk of snow turning up uninvited to add a dash of white to the orange and black colour scheme of a typical Hallowe’en party, turning trick or treat into slip or slide. So far, though, it remains in the realms of possibility. What is certain is that the mild weather of the past week – warm, sunny days, and chilly nights – is on the way out. Already we have experienced the new normal for this weekend – a biting northerly wind, bringing polar air to all parts and causing thermometers to wilt.
Just as yesterday, today will see some decent spells of autumnal sunshine, but it will come with an icy sparkle because of the clear, crisp Arctic air. At least that is better than the rain expected again anywhere down the eastern seaboard. Aberdeen, Hull and Norwich will make it no further than 46F (8C), London and Belfast 48F (9C). Over in the more sheltered South West, 52F (11C) in Plymouth has a pleasant enough ring to it, but then you have to factor in the wind chill.
Over high ground in Scotland and in northern and north-eastern England, you could see some snowfall today, but whether it will stick around until Hallowe’en as the backdrop to all those glowing pumpkins on doorsteps is currently foxing forecasters. The problem is that as we get into next week the UK will be surrounded on all sides by low pressure systems, bringing rain, wind and unsettled weather. If one sticks directly over us, it could be very wet indeed.
But, by definition, unsettled weather can mean snow or sunshine – or both in the course of the same day. The only definite is that it will not be warm. Tuck a hot-water bottle under your witch’s cloak. The best chance of a rise in temperature will come later in the week, when high pressure may arrive like Prince Charming to break the icy spell.