Unsettled weather conditions are expected to persist in the United Kingdom for several more days, with the likelihood of rain remaining prominent.
Low-pressure systems situated to the northwest of the UK will continue to drive showers across the country from the west. While these showers are anticipated to be less impactful than recent heavy rainfall, some could be substantial. Additionally, there is a risk of hail and thunderstorms, particularly in the southern regions of the UK.
Looking ahead to Thursday, many parts of England will start the day dry. However, a band of rain is projected to move northeastward across the southern and eastern regions. A yellow National Severe Weather Warning for rain has been issued, valid from 12 noon until the early hours of Friday morning.
Met Office Chief Meteorologist Matthew Lehnert commented on the upcoming weather: “The track of the heaviest rain remains uncertain, but there is a chance of 20 to 30 mm of rain falling in a 6 to 9-hour period for a portion of the warning area, with a few places seeing as much as 40-50 mm. Much of this rain is falling on already wet ground, and therefore, impacts are more likely. Meanwhile, a stalled weather front will continue to bring rain and showers across the northeast.
In the longer term, rain showers are expected to gradually ease, and many regions may experience dry and fine weather over the weekend. High-pressure systems are likely to establish themselves either over the UK or slightly to the north, indicating a shift towards colder, drier, and more settled conditions for most areas.
As we move into the next week, temperatures are predicted to drop, resulting in colder weather across much of the country. Frost is likely overnight, and with the prevalent ground moisture, calm conditions, and longer nights, there is also a risk of fog.
The UK Health Security Agency has issued a cold weather alert covering the entirety of England, valid from 9 am on January 6th to 12 noon on January 9th. Temperatures are expected to be below average, especially overnight, with an increased occurrence of overnight frost, particularly concerning due to the wet ground conditions.
