Warmer spells on the way… but not for everyone
FROST in late April is unusual, but we have been seeing it this past week, especially in the countryside, as an area of low pressure over the North Sea draws down cold winds from the Arctic. Average temperatures for this time of year are 52-61F (11-16C) but very few places have been getting anywhere near that, with Scotland enjoying the best of what little warmth has been around. Better times, though, are on the horizon, just not this weekend.
After the rain and wind that spread up from southern England yesterday, many parts will start today with sunshine that should stick around, interrupted by the occasional shower. Though the wind remains cold, the late April sunshine is getting stronger, so if you can find some shelter there is something to enjoy. The exception to this more benign situation is over in East Anglia and the English Midlands. The low pressure that yesterday was over France has moved up into the North Sea. Heavy rain could result in these areas, or a covering of cloud.
The best of the temperatures will be in London and the South East at 55F (13C). South Wales and south-western England should manage 54F (12C), as will Glasgow, Edinburgh and Belfast further north, with north-west England at 52F (11C). With the start of the working week comes a welcome switch in wind direction to southwesterly, meaning milder air. The mercury will respond and begin to climb rapidly towards 63F (17C).
As the week progresses, though, progress will be stalled by the continuing presence of low pressure affecting eastern England. It will stay cool but in the West, in more sheltered parts, temperatures should climb.