Cold weather set to finally end later this month, Met Office says
The cold blast currently sweeping the UK certainly doesn’t feel like it’ll be shifting anytime soon, as we shuffle around in every layer we own while desperately hugging cups of tea for warmth.
But that doesn’t stop us dreaming of warmer times, when we’ll be out in that beer garden sipping on a refreshing pint of cider.
OK, that may be a little while off yet, but the Met Office seems to think the end of the extreme winter chill is on the way out, at least.
Amber and yellow warnings for snow and ice are currently in place for the UK throughout today (Friday 10 March), tomorrow and Sunday.
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From Monday, there are currently no warnings, with temperatures in some areas even hitting double digits – only to dip to single figures again, with the Met Office also warning that 'low pressure from the west will drive strong winds and heavy rain across much of the UK' by the start of next week, adding that 'colder air could hang on for longer in northern Scotland, with a chance of further significant snow should it do so'.
So if things will remain fairly bleak even if the snow begins to shift, when can we see temperatures start to rise again more generally?
The forecasting body said things may go back to average later this month, but warned we may still see some unsettled periods as we move into April.
Stephen Dixon, a Met Office spokesman, told the Daily Star: "During the latter part of March and through to early April, temperatures are most likely to be around average with milder interludes favoured in the south and colder interludes favoured in the north.
"However, although uncertain, there are signals for more unsettled conditions in the south, with periods of wind and rain possible at times."
The snow is all thanks to Storm Larissa, which has also brought 50mph winds and up to 40cm of snow in some parts of the country.
The UK Health Security Agency has issued a Level 3 Cold Weather Alert for the whole of England until Monday (13 March).
Dr Agostinho Sousa, Head of Extreme Events and Health Protection at the UK Health Security Agency, said: “During periods like this, it is important to check in on family, friends and relatives who may be more vulnerable to the cold weather, as it can have a serious impact on health.
“If you have a pre-existing medical condition or are over the age of 65, it is important to try and heat your home to at least 18°C if you can.’’
Jess Hardiman