Warmth to replace cold as Arctic air gives way, but strong winds and heavy rain forecasted over the weekend.

After enduring a period of heavy snow, icy roads, and sub-zero temperatures, the United Kingdom is poised for a shift in weather patterns. The Arctic air, currently gripping the nation, is expected to be displaced from the north and west starting Friday, ushering in milder air with an Atlantic influence. However, with the rise in temperatures comes a new concern, as the Met Office issues yellow weather warnings for wind and rain covering most of the country.

The yellow warning, spanning from 6 am Sunday to 6 am Monday, cautions of winds reaching up to 70mph along exposed coasts and up to 60mph inland. The forecaster anticipates that these strong winds could disrupt travel, damage buildings, and pose risks to lives from flying debris. Notably, the warning covers the entire country, excluding the southeast, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

Additionally, a yellow weather warning for rain is in place for most of Wales, the northwest of England, and southwest and central Scotland. The warning duration varies, with Scotland under alert from midday on Sunday until midnight, and Wales and England facing a 24-hour warning period from 6 am on Sunday.

Despite the warmer temperatures anticipated over the weekend, with temperatures possibly reaching 12°C on Sunday and London hitting 15°C on Tuesday, an amber cold health alert remains in place across the UK until midday on Saturday. This alert signifies that the impact of cold weather on health services is likely to be felt for an extended period, with the entire population potentially at risk. Older individuals, in particular, are considered more vulnerable to the effects of cold weather.

The Environment Agency has issued 13 flood warnings, where flooding is expected, and 59 flood alerts where flooding is possible. These warnings are compounded by the threat of snow and ice continuing into Friday afternoon, prompting travel disruption across Central, Tayside & Fife, SW Scotland, Lothian Borders, and Strathclyde. An ice warning is also in place for parts of northwest England, Wales, and the Midlands.

Met Office Deputy Chief Meteorologist David Hayter noted, “Conditions will stay cold on Friday, but a change in weather type is on the way, bringing milder air for the UK during the weekend.” The forecast warns of wet and windy weather approaching from the west on Sunday, prompting vigilance for updates to warnings as the situation evolves.